Central Asian-Persian Awareness Day and Navruz March 25 at UW

The University of Wyoming’s Central Asian Student Association (CASA) will celebrate its 10th annual Central Asian Awareness Day and Navruz from 6-10 p.m. Saturday, March 25, in the Wyoming Union Ballroom. This year, Persian students will join CASA members to bring awareness about their culture and Navruz. 

Though the event is free and open to the public, tickets are required. Tickets will be distributed Wednesday and Thursday, March 22-23, at noon at the Wyoming Union information desk. 

Navruz is one of the most treasured holidays in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan), Iran and Azerbaijan, says CASA adviser Dilnoza Khasilova, a current Global Engagement Fellow in UW’s Global Engagement Office. 

“Sometimes known as Persian New Year, Navruz is a chance to celebrate nature, to welcome a new year and to enjoy flavorful food with friends, neighbors and family,” Khasilova says. “Navruz is celebrated on the spring equinox, which is usually March 21. The holiday is celebrated across Iran and Central Asia, all the way to the Black Sea and the Balkans.” 

The celebration will feature Zamira Salim, a folk dancer from Central Asia, and her Artigul Ansambel, and percussionist Abbos Kosimov, a world-recognized master of doira. 

CASA, established in October 2011 as a recognized student organization at UW, was formed to create and promote a better understanding of Central Asia and its rich culture and history among students, faculty and the local community through involvement, as well as participation in various social and cultural activities. CASA has been recognized for the top country display during International Education Week at UW three times. The group’s table was voted the best cultural display by organizers of the event. 

This year, CASA raised funds to support the International Students and Scholars office's food pantry and Karma fundraising program. 

“By showing Central Asian and Persian heritage, our students develop close relationships and deepened intercultural understanding,” Khasilova says. 

For more information about Central Asian and Persian Awareness Day and Navruz, visit Facebook.