Long Island Region President Nick LaMorte greets Festivals of Light guests.
COMMACK— The diversity of CSEA’s membership is one of our union’s greatest gifts. No matter the religion or ethnic background, CSEA represents people from all walks of life.
That fact was celebrated at the 2018 Festivals of Light ceremony.
The annual event, organized by our Long Island Region Human Rights Committee, helps guests learn more about the various religious and cultural observances that take place during the holiday season.
This year, there were presentations about Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Islam, as well as special holiday readings. There was also a musical performance and giveaways that reflect the presenters’ respective cultures.
Rubina Zahid, right, gives Sylvia Ware a free henna tattoo, a traditional expression in Muslim culture.
For the first time at the event, attendees were treated with free henna tattoos, which were applied by Muslim guests. Henna body art, which is temporary, is traditionally used in many Middle Eastern and other mostly Muslim cultures as a form of expression, often in association with celebrations.
Please try to join your union brothers and sisters for next year’s ceremony. It’s a great place for members to meet, and learn more about, our CSEA brothers and sisters.
— Wendi Bowie
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- Left, Santa Claus, as portrayed by CSEA Local 430 President Pete Marriott, visits with CSEA Retiree member Shirley Baker and her grandson, Bryce Baker.
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- Rochelle Davidson spiritedly recites the poem, “A Visit from St. Nick.”
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- Human Rights Committee Chair Eileen Moskowitz tells members the story of Hanukkah.
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- Dr. Pamela Robinson explains the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
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- Gloria Speight and Ritchie Acevedo recite a reading on the history of Three Kings Day.
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- Summan Gullo educates members on Muslim holiday traditions.
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- Mary Leger entertains attendees by playing holiday songs on her accordion.
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- Suffolk Retirees Local 990 members Meg Shutka, Walter Harris and Elizabeth Harris listen to one of the many holiday readings.
