Lincoln held its third-annual and largest-ever Lincoln Unites! festival this May, where Lincoln families celebrated a welcoming community and enjoyed the rich cultural diversity of Nebraska’s capital city.
A moving citizenship ceremony in the morning celebrated 30 new American citizens, who were originally from Liberia, Mexico, China, and other countries, together with many friends, family, and neighbors in attendance.
In the afternoon, hundreds of Lincoln residents of all ages paraded through activities, food, and performances at the Nebraska History Museum on Centennial Mall. Kids had a chance to try pupusas from El Salvador,falafel from Iraq, and to see dancing from South Sudan.
“One of my favorite parts of living in Lincoln is the opportunity to learn and experience a whole tapestry of cultures through my neighbors,” said Lee Kreimer, Welcoming Associate at Nebraska Appleseed. “On Saturday, I traveled the world just by heading over to Lincoln Unites!”
Afternoon performances included Lion Dancers from Vietnam, musicians and dancers from Fiesta Mexicana of the Heartland, and more music from Edem Soul Music and Elias Eedo. Colorful and thought-provoking student art decorated the walls from the “Many Faces, One Lincoln” art contest hosted by the LUX Center for the Arts.
“It has been exciting to see this festival grow in just three years,” said Christa Yoakum, Nebraska Is Home Coordinator. “It is truly a collaborative effort by local nonprofits, businesses, and the city of Lincoln, and it showcases something really special about our community. It was so much fun to see Lincoln neighbors enjoying one another’s cultural heritages.”