With the holiday season on the horizon and the semester coming to a close, students in the region are actively making plans for their Thanksgiving festivities. One trend that is gaining popularity is Friendsgiving, a contemporary take on the traditional holiday. It brings friends together to enjoy a jolly meal in a relaxed and informal environment, providing an alternative to the usual family celebrations. Friendsgiving emphasizes chosen family, and it is particularly favored by college students, young professionals, and those unable to return home during the holidays.

Unity House: A Hub of Community and Connection

Located within RIT's campus dorms, Unity House is a special interest residence that serves as a central gathering place. Established in 1986 by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, it welcomes new students and unites the ALANA (African, Latin, Asian, and Native American) community. Through a variety of academic workshops, cultural programs, and community service activities, Unity House promotes cultural awareness and history while addressing personal, social, and educational needs.

Annual Soul Food Sunday Dinner at Unity House

Each year around Thanksgiving, Unity House hosts its Soul Food Sunday dinner, creating a warm and inviting space for students to come together and celebrate the holiday season. The event brings the ALANA community together through music, food, and dance. Guerline Guerrier, a 4th-year biomedical science major and former Unity House Vice President, shared, "Attending Soul Food Sunday is truly a stress reliever. All you need to do is don your best outfit, savor a delicious meal, and catch up with friends you haven't seen all semester. It's like a home away from home, allowing us to enjoy a meal that is completely different from campus food, and all at no cost to students."

Over the years, more than 100 students have attended this event. Campus groups such as Velocity Dance, Eight Beat Measure, and the Latin Rhythm Dance Club have also been featured performers. Natalie Robinson, Unity House Vice President from 2019-2020, said, "Unity House's Soul Food Sunday feels like home to me. From the planning stage to the actual event, there is always so much happening behind the scenes. But the final outcome makes it all worthwhile. I have had the privilege of witnessing new leaders emerge within the organization, creating an event that gives their peers a much-needed break from a tough semester filled with late nights, exams, and burnout. This evening of dancing, food, laughter, and celebration reminds everyone that there is a supportive community at RIT, always ready to offer a helping hand."

Unity House's Impact on the Campus Community

Unity House plays a significant role in the campus community. It provides a safe and inclusive space where students can connect with others who share similar backgrounds and interests. Through its various activities, it helps students develop a sense of belonging and cultural understanding. As Genae Shields, the business and development impact reporter, mentioned, "Unity House is a vital part of the RIT community. It offers students an opportunity to celebrate their cultures and traditions while also building meaningful relationships. The events like Soul Food Sunday bring people together and create a sense of unity that is truly special."

Unity House's commitment to community and connection extends beyond the holidays. It continues to offer support and resources to students throughout the year, helping them navigate their academic and personal lives. Whether it's through academic workshops or cultural programs, Unity House is a place where students can thrive and grow.