Rich red and gold decorations adorned the UT Physicians Multispecialty – International District clinic on Jan. 30 for their second annual Lunar New Year celebration. The goal of the day was not only to celebrate the Year of the Rat, but to create healthy new year resolutions.
“Our intention with this event was to increase awareness for easy, healthy commitments that our patients could make for the new year. While exploring the cultural celebration, they also could take advantage of professional advice from on-site certified health education specialists who explained how to incorporate simple wellness tips into day-to-day life,” said Ivy Weng, program coordinator and community health education specialist.
Guests were treated to a show of music and dance meant to symbolize and celebrate the diversity of culture that is present in the International District. Performances included a Taiwanese aboriginal dance, a song beautifully played on the Chinese zither, and additional cultural dances. UT Physicians staff also joined in on the show, with all community health education specialists leading the attendees in a line dance meant to promote a commitment to be more active in the new year.
“Events like this are important because they help educate people about our culture. Also, as someone with a chronic illness, attending this Lunar New Year celebration helps me to feel less isolated. I’m comfortable being in a medical environment that I am familiar with, where I can actually have fun and be social,” said Michael Ngai, attendee at the event.
After the show, people were able to visit multiple booths for healthy information and giveaways, including a lucky red envelope and fresh fruit. Healthy commitments could be written on poster boards situated around the room.
“This was a wonderful event that celebrated diversity, equity, and inclusion. We were successful in uniting people to empower and positively influence our community. Our goal is to maintain one inclusive voice in order to care for all of our patients,” said Fahad Kamal, the community practice manager for UT Physicians Multispecialty-International District.
To schedule an appointment at the clinic, call 713-486-5900 or go to UT Physicians Multispecialty – International District. Click the video below to see the excitement and culture of the Lunar New Year celebration.
