by Nina Ansas
UHCLIDIAN STAFF

The diverse international makeup of the UH-Clear Lake community and greater Houston area make familiarity with foreign cultures necessary through promoting understanding. A cultural immersion Oct. 19 at the Indonesian Consulate provided insight into the country's culture.

By providing information, cultural immersions can help diminish fears such as those some people experienced after the recent terrorist attacks.

Keith Parsons, assistant professor of philosophy, believes that when crises happen, it is important for everyone to realize that civilization continues beyond U.S. borders. People of goodwill reside in many foreign places, and immersions facilitate this concept by eliminating fear of the unknown.

"When anything like this happens, a lot of nasty things that are normally hidden come out of the woodwork, and one of those things is xenophobia," Parsons said.

"A fear or suspicion of foreigners has always been an ugly undercurrent in American history. When people perceive a threat from without, they start listening to those who favor some form of xenophobia. "

Because more than 600 international students study at UH-Clear Lake, and the greater Houston-area comprises a variety of ethnic groups and nationalities, it is important for people to familiarize themselves with foreign cultures. According to Ingeborg Hayes, administrative coordinator for International Initiatives, immersions strive for this goal.

"Knowledge of other cultures can guide us toward preserving the beauty of this world and the commitment to peace," Hayes said.

"I felt like this couldn't have come at a better time," said Barbara Perales, supervisor for the School of Business and Public Administration. "People are afraid because of ignorance, and that's exact ly why this immersion was so important."

According to Jerry Rhodeback, executive director for International Initiatives, the Sept. 11 tragedy highlighted a need for greater cultural understanding because crises change how people interact .

"Shock followed by fear is normal, but I believe behind this fear is a sign saying we need to put our differences aside and face problems together," Rhodeback said. "Immersion helps with the communication process as we glimpse into and begin to understand others' perspectives."

Cultural immersions strengthen relationships within the university and aid in connecting with the community. The daylong session included a talk by Consul General Talib Puspokusum and a demonstration of a typical wedding ceremony.

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