Written by Class of 2025
Photos by Alysha Seng(Class of 2028), Selene Luong(Class of 2027), Emily Tan(Class of 2026)
Video by Selene Luong(Class of 2027)

Amid this flurry of excitement and anticipation, we welcomed the 2024 Honoring Elders Day event on November 2nd, 2024. With the theme “Generations Together for World Peace,” the girls’ and boys’ schools prepared various performances to express our gratitude and warm wishes to the elderly and the world. Students dedicated heartfelt dances, songs, and skits, bridging generations through shared joy and cultural expression. This event not only honored our elders but also strengthened our sense of unity and commitment to a peaceful, connected world.

The entire program includes performances from all ages, fully demonstrating the central theme of generation together. It started with the cute and heartfelt collaboration song “Teamwork” combining the students of the K-1 and grade 4-6 classes. The audience was all attracted by the healing children’s voices.

The melodious music by elders from UkeTones and Mendo C Notes contributed to the theme of peace across the generations!

Throughout the event, the air was filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of sharing moments across generations. The Lion Dance, Dragon Dance, Chinese Dance, Orchestra, are memorable Chinese performances that symbolize good luck, prosperity, and honoring ancestors for centuries.

The colorful dances are a highlight at festivals and special events like Honoring Elders Day, where they symbolize strength, courage, and the continuity of cultural traditions. Music is another universal language that brings people together, as the melody filled the atmosphere, the room seemed to come alive with energy. 

During the event, the students acted as staff, bringing meticulous care to the guests and the elderly, and welcomed everyone with a heartfelt smile, serving every cup of tea with sincerity and every piece of food with warmth. Both performers and staff are grateful and committed to making every guest happy and enjoying our events.

In conclusion, the “Honoring Elders Day” was a day filled with respect, joy, and unity, a beautiful celebration of wisdom. The students’ effort to respect and honor elders were recognized, not only expressed through their gratitude but also created lasting memories that bridged the generations. 

Thank you to the Ukiah Daily Journal for featuring this event. Read the article here.