The Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Committee (VCDC) held its annual International Day 2025 on Oct. 11, an afternoon filled with color, culture and community.
The celebration – now in its sixth year – brought to Eastern High School more than 500 attendees, the largest turnout to date, and featured more tha 30 vendors, 20 restaurants and nearly 40 student volunteers.
“This celebration has been held for more than five years with the sole purpose of continuing to promote racial, ethnic and cultural diversity in our community,” said committee chair and event organizer Stephanie Fisher. “We decided to continue hosting this event due to the need to further express our support for the diverse community in Voorhees Township.”
The program began with the parade of flags and international costumes. Cultural performances throughout the day showcased the township’s diversity, with presentations from the Muslim, Cambodian, Filipino, Jewish and Mexican communities.
The event also featured praise dancers from Mount Zion UMC of Lawnside, the El Mariachi Dancers of Mexico and a performance by “America’s Got Talent” contestant Little Miss Zoe Eriana.
Food was donated by local restaurants that included Olive Garden, Passariello’s Italian Kitchen, Reyta’s Filipino Cuisine, Nimit Palace Indian Restaurant and Coriander. Vendors offered everything from Henna art to home goods and jewelry.
Fisher also served as emcee, emphasizing the importance of inclusion.
“By including participation from all residents through programming, performances and attendance,” she noted, “we continue to include everyone as we further our mission of inclusion for all.”
Committee secretary Lisa Witherspoon highlighted the role of students in the event.
“Students from different ethnic backgrounds can merge together in unity through the Eastern Diversity Club, where they learn about different cultures and enjoy food, customs and traditions,” she explained. “Incorporating students expands the generations to appreciate and respect differences.”
“There are strong connections between students,” offered committee treasurer Janette Norcross. “They understand the differences among each other, which makes us unique and stronger together. Working with schools is one of the best ways to educate and demonstrate what we can offer our communities.”
International Day included a special proclamation presented by Fisher to Zahida Rahman, widow of committee founder Zia Rahman, who started the group in 2007. Committee member Sapana Raval represented India.
“Events like International Day help foster understanding among students from diverse backgrounds,” she pointed out. “They break down stereotypes, build empathy and celebrate the richness of diversity.”
“This year was the biggest in attendance, volunteers and performances ever,” Fisher reported about the celebration’s growth. “Everyone is welcome in Voorhees Township, our doors are open and we invite all to be part of our community.”
Residents interested in joining the Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Committee can attend meetings at 6 p.m. on the first Monday of every month at the township’s municipal offices or contact Fisher at (609) 841-2727 or Reneeally69.81@gmail.com
