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News from the Keweenaw Peninsula October 2, 2001 Photos and Text © 2001 Michele Anderson

Nations United - Parade of Nations 2001

HANCOCK -- International students and visitors joined with Michigan Tech faculty, staff, students and local residents in the Nations United - Parade of Nations from Hancock to Houghton on Sept. 22. This year, instead of marching in separate groups, identified by a flag and a sign, people from various nations marched together in unity. The change was made after the tragic terrorist attack of Sept. 11.

Calumet High School's German Club members set out on the trek from Hancock Middle School on Quincy Street to Dee Stadium in Houghton, where visitors were treated to a wide variety of international cuisine. The German Club contributed delicious desserts as part of their repertoire.

 

The Hancock High School Band provided some great musical accompaniment for the marchers in the parade.

 

Finnish students gather around their flag, carried by Juha Helttunen, an engineering student at Michigan Tech. As they prepare to join the parade in Hancock, they are joined by some local residents of Finnish descent, including Kristin Tepsa of Houghton, right, next to Helttunen.

 

Hancock Elementary School students march proudly behind their first-prize-winning float, "Blast Off to Dreamland with a Good Book." Riding in style on the float, along with students, is first grade teacher Rebekah Stadius of Hancock. Not visible, but riding in the car, were float chairpersons Maija Stadius, assistant principal, and Amy Maki, Title I teacher.

 

Representing several different African countries and marching together in unity, members of Michigan Tech's African Students' Association cross the Portage Lift Bridge on their way to Houghton's Dee Stadium, where some of them presented a lively dance performance.

 

See the Michigan Tech Lode for a Sept. 25 story on the Parade.