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ONTARIO, CA – Born and raised in the United States, Ghattas Khoury has always felt a deep connection to his Jordanian heritage. At Chaffey Adult School’s 4th Annual Multicultural Fair on March 8, he volunteered at a booth showcasing traditional clothing, books and artifacts from Jordan and the Arab region.
His message was simple yet powerful: “Be proud of where you came from, and be proud of where you’re at.”
The booth was one of dozens celebrating cultures from around the world as Chaffey Adult School’s 5th Street campus transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange. Featuring live performances, international cuisine, art and interactive displays, the Multicultural Fair – the first since pre-pandemic 2020 – provided a space for community members to embrace diversity, learn from one another, and strengthen the bonds that make the Inland Empire such a dynamic region.
“The Multicultural Fair is more than a celebration – it’s an opportunity to foster understanding and appreciation for the incredible range of cultures represented in our community,” said Dr. George Matamala, Principal of Chaffey Adult School. “Every year we’ve hosted this event, it has brought people together, reminding us that our differences make us stronger. This was especially true this year, after a five-year hiatus.”
Organized by Dr. Nora Hourani-Farraj, Assistant Principal of Chaffey Adult School and Director of Community Relations for the Chaffey Joint Union High School District, the fair also featured a Community Resource Fair, connecting attendees with organizations such as House of Ruth, Inland Empire Health Plan, Molina Healthcare and the Mexican Consulate.
“The diversity of our community is our greatest strength,” said Dr. Hourani-Farraj. “This event is a way for us to celebrate that diversity while also providing valuable resources to those who need them.”
Chaffey Adult School serves more than 3,000 students annually, offering a range of educational opportunities to support lifelong learning and career advancement. The Multicultural Fair reflects the school’s commitment to embracing different backgrounds and perspectives, ensuring that all students and community members feel seen, valued, and supported.
“The Chaffey Joint Union High School District is proud to support events that promote inclusion and cultural awareness,” said Dr. Mathew Holton, Superintendent of Chaffey Joint Union High School District. “Now, more than ever, it is essential to come together as a community and celebrate the rich traditions that make us who we are.”
From the rhythmic beats of traditional music to the flavors of global cuisine, the Multicultural Fair was a testament to the power of cultural exchange. As attendees left with a newfound appreciation for their neighbors’ heritage, one message rang clear: celebrating diversity strengthens the entire community.
For more information about Chaffey Adult School and its programs, visit https://cas.cjuhsd.net.
