Not in our School Week came to a colorful conclusion today with a performance by the San Jose State University-based ethnic dance troupe Luna y Sol.

The group performed a selection of traditional Hispanic songs, including Niño Perdido, Toro Mambo, Sauza y la Palma and Nereidas.

Luna y Sol, which means “moon and sun” in English, has performed at Paly’s NIOS week in the past and is a strong supporter of Paly’s message of cultural awareness.

“A lot of people lose their culture coming here,” Jocelyn Gutierrez, a performer in the group said. “We’re here to say that ‘you shouldn’t lose your roots.’”

The dance brought a week of performances and shared cultural experiences to a close.

NIOS week began on Monday with the opening ceremony and presentation of flags from around the world. The Bhangra Club also brought a touch of Indian flare with a performance during the second half of lunch.

On Tuesday, homegrown band The Aisling Project provided entertainment while students wrote common misconceptions about others on pieces of paper and threw them into a pool in the “Dissolving Stereotypes” activity.

“I think people underestimate the importance of unity, and it’s an important aspect of our school and our culture,” Aisling Project drummer Jacob Lauing said.

On Wednesday, students held hands in the “Unity Line” activity in order to show the strong connection among the Paly community and wrote uplifting messages in chalk on parts of the quad.

Despite forecasts for rain on Thursday, ASB provided free blank white T-shirts on which students could write NIOS week-related messages.

“I had a lot of fun making my unity T shirt,” senior Gracie Marshall said.

“NIOS week is an important part of our Paly culture,” ASB Senior Class President Jack Smale said. “Bridging cultures is integral to promoting equality and understanding between students of different backgrounds.”

Click here to view a slideshow of today’s events.