CSULB's 2022 Cultural Celebrations honor graduates' unique journeys

Published May 20, 2022

Cal State Long Beach’s Cultural Graduation Celebrations, held in addition to the traditional Commencement ceremonies, have been a staple at The Beach for decades.

Some 1,500 graduates took part in the nine ceremonies, which included: American Indian, Black/Pan-African, Cambodian, Chicano/Latino, Lavender, Pacific Islander, Pilipino, Undocumented and Vietnamese. The intimate celebrations were held May 14-18.

“The Cultural Graduation Celebrations at the Beach provide an identity-based space where students are with others who understand the unique journey they took to reach this milestone,” said Pamela A. Lewis, Senior Director of Multicultural Affairs & Inclusion, who co-chaired the celebrations with Anna Nazarian-Peters, Interim Director of Student Life & Development.

The celebrations “acknowledge the hard work, commitment and sacrifices our BIPOC/LGBTQIA+ students and families have made to continue their resiliency in accomplishing their academic achievements," Nazarian-Peters said.

The key, added Lewis, is the students “are celebrating their accomplishments with their family and friends.”