Every Spring, the Wauwatosa West High School’s learning center and cafeteria transforms into a vibrant mosaic of colors, sounds, and flavors as the school’s annual Multicultural Fair takes place. Students, families, and local organizations come together to share their unique heritage through traditional music, dance, art, cuisine, and more, creating an atmosphere that is both educational and celebrational.
This year, March 7 marked the 16th annual event, which was open to the public. The event was initially brought to life by retired teacher Margaret Patrias, who wanted to create unity through understanding. Margaret, a longtime Spanish teacher, also was an inspiration to current Wauwatosa West Spanish teacher and Multicultural Fair adviser Catherine Munoz, who was especially moved by Patrias’ passion and dedication to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds.
Although the fair was started by and continues to be managed by a Spanish teacher, the reality is that all students, regardless of participation in language classes, are invited to participate in the Multicultural Fair.
“The Multicultural Fair is a pride point for our school and our community,” Munoz said. “The fair demonstrates what it means to be a member of the Wauwatosa community.”
The Multicultural Fair is a grassroots effort, as it started with a zero-dollar budget that relied on donations from families and the West PTA. It has now grown into an organization that is able to give a scholarship to a graduating West senior.
The mission still remains as creating unity through understanding, but the vision is to always provide a fun, free and family-oriented experience that is suitable for all ages, Munoz said.
“Never underestimate the importance of extracurricular activities, and the power they have to shape lives,” she said.
To prepare for this event, students meet for countless hours in the months leading up to the fair to brainstorm new ideas, attractions, and how they can get community members involved. They also work with Munoz to prepare all of the materials, contact all of the businesses for donations, and look to community members for unique entertainment to feature at the fair.
“Every year, I have students who tell me that they wish they would have been able to get involved with the fair earlier in their high school career because they see what a meaningful event this is to so many,” Munoz said.
The common thread is that everyone involved in the fair is a volunteer and ambassador for its mission.
If you are interested in being involved in a future Multicultural Fair, please contact Catherine Munoz at munozca@wauwatosa.k12.wi.us.