Our voice will be heard

**beloitpiper** · 26th January 08, 04:15 PM

I wrote this for the school newspaper.

The Burns Supper, this Saturday at 8:00pm, is a time-honored tradition for Scots and people of Scottish descent all over the world dating back to the end of the 18th century. Celebrating the life and works of Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns, there will be a traditional meal of haggis, potatoes, and turnips with Scotch (for those of age). Additional entertainment includes a bagpipe performance, traditional Scottish Highland Dancing, and recitation of Burns' poetry.

Recently, I have been questioned about my cultural traditions; wearing kilts, playing bagpipes, brewing beer, etc. Some have called it "backwards", "archaic", "immodest", and even "intrusive" and "gaudy". Although there may not be a unified Celtic group on campus, the traditions run strong in my culture. While many ethnic groups enjoy a solid core community, such as the Black Students United, Am Yisrael, and Voces Latinas, our Celtic population does not enjoy such organized leadership. But this does not mean we are ashamed or don't embrace our heritage. So long as two of us are together we will celebrate our common heritage with pride and reverence. I will continue to embrace my heritage despite criticism and hope that others can accept and hopefully join me in my celebration of traditional pastimes and traditions.

Unfortunately, the Celtic community has received the poor reputation of excessive drinkers, aggressive brawlers, and general vandals. Nothing could be farther from the truth, as I believe we to be courteous, upstanding citizens that are relatively rare in our modern world.

Throughout American history, Celtic people have shaped this country dramatically, to say the least. From inspiring out Declaration of Independence to forging our federal Constitution, we brought this fledging rebellion to the great nation that it is today. But it has not always been an easy path. For years, were were used as slaves, discriminated against ethnically, and our religion persecuted. But through this, we fought bravely for this country, advanced it through medicine and science, and provided great leaders of integrity and strength.

So this night, when we open our culture to the campus, I hope many of you will join us and explore our rich, vibrant history and culture and discover for yourself who we are and how much fun Beloit's Celtic community can be.

Thank you,
Gregory Long