Jugglers juggled pins, dancers shook the stage and hula hoops swayed on hips for the first annual Caribbean Cultural Night on Sunday in the Oklahoma Memorial Union Ballroom.

The Caribbean Student Association debuted its first annual culture night under the theme “Unity Makes Us Stronger.” Following an extended absence from campus, the organization created this event to showcase the rich culture of many Caribbean islands, said Kelly-Ann Gasper, organization vice president and zoology sophomore.

The cultural night was held to display the rich Caribbean culture, said Uyouyo Eto, psychology sophomore.

“It also makes us learn other cultures; besides, college isn’t just about studying,” Eto said.

Students performed various talents, including salsa dancing, musical compositions and the playing of the steel pan, Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument.

The student association served authentic Caribbean cuisine after the show at the Henderson-Tolson Cultural Center. The traditional dishes included Jamaican jerked chicken, stewed chicken and rice and peas.

Proceeds from the night’s activities will be donated to ongoing Haiti relief efforts and the Analece Kerr Fund to help with the cost of a young girl’s heart surgery.

“No matter which part of the Caribbean you are from, we are all one,” Gasper said. “Even though we are here and so far from home, we can still help.”

Cultural events such as this one help the OU community become more aware of each other, said Folasade Akande, psychology sophomore.

While there was only so much the association could present in one night, it may serve as a starting point for students, said Atiba Williams, University College freshman.

“I hope people learn more about the wonderful music, dance and culture of the Caribbean,” Williams said.