USF’s multicultural organizations help preserve the culture of our diverse student body.

Over 3,000 international undergraduate students attended USF as of the drop/add period in fall 2024, according to the 2024-25 factbook. 

But while we have a melting pot of cultures at USF, our celebration of such diversity is under threat. Per President Donald Trump’s agenda, colleges must dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives or they risk losing federal funding.

Meaning, now is the time to show the higher administration just how important it is to maintain funding for multicultural organizations on campus.

These organizations allow students to establish the support networks they may need, because feeling a sense of belonging can make or break the college experience for many.

These organizations can also allow you to get in touch with your roots.

“Multicultural organizations serve many purposes, including giving students another forum to create community,” said Holly Donahue Singh, an associate professor of instruction in anthropology. 

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When I first came to USF, I joined the Mexican-American Student Association. I felt a sense of comfort and belonging within this club, knowing my Mexican descent was represented. 

Students at USF can find a variety of multicultural clubs to find a sense of community in. 

Some multicultural organizations at USF include the Mexican-American Student Association, Pakistani Students Association and Saudi Students Club at USF. 

Another great example is the Vietnamese International Student Association at USF, where 432 students have found a sense of community. 

“Our goal is to create a well-rounded support system for Vietnamese international students, both socially and academically,” said Ha Le, president of the Vietnamese International Student Association at USF.

Le does so by hosting events highlighting Vietnamese culture, like Tet, which is the Vietnamese New Year, and Tien Len Tournament, a popular Vietnamese card game.

Le isn’t just able to connect with her culture through these events, but also within her club position. In Le’s case, she’s gotten to her Vietnamese culture on a deeper level as the club’s president.  

“It’s not just about the events we host, it’s about the people – my people,” Le said. “I have the privilege of bringing value to our community by connecting individuals, fostering growth and creating spaces for us to celebrate our shared culture.”

But my favorite thing about these organizations is how they provide an outlet for learning.

“These organizations help bridge gaps between diverse groups and foster understanding, which is crucial in an academic environment,” Le said.

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Considering Trump’s war on DEI, we need to highlight diversity and not take it away.

“Through our events, students from different cultures can gain insight into Vietnamese traditions, language and lifestyle, while also engaging in discussions that promote cultural understanding,” Le said. 

Le said everyone is able to participate in any of the club events as a way to share ideas and experiences.

At times, it can feel like we are only surrounded by the culture we grew up in, but that doesn’t mean we can’t learn about other cultures.

At USF, we need to celebrate our differences, not distance ourselves from one another.