Here at Cathedral Catholic High School, the campus is more than just a place for classes; it’s a community where students share their cultures, passions, and stories. From cultural clubs to service-based groups, each club offers a window into the diverse backgrounds and perspectives that make up the CCHS student body. Together, these organizations not only celebrate individuality, but also build bridges of understanding, showing how diversity strengthens the core values of our school.
These groups go beyond the typical club meeting; they create spaces where traditions, history, and identity are honored. By hosting school wide events, sharing food, singing at masses, and sharing personal stories, cultural clubs invite the student body to experience different backgrounds firsthand. This not only deepens the pride of members of these clubs, but it also allows for understanding across the campus.
At Cathedral, our cultural clubs include The Italian Culture Club, Iraqi Culture Club, Black Student Union, Cultura Brasilera Club, Filipino American Student Association, Hispanic Latino Student Union, Polynesian Club, Prism, Middle Eastern Students for Christ, Asian Culture Appreciation Club, and the Cultural Culinary Club. Let’s deep dive into some of these clubs and see the lasting impact they are leaving on Cathedral.
The Black Student Union (BSU) is one of the most vibrant cultural clubs on campus, dedicated to celebrating Black culture and promoting unity within the CCHS community. BSU members sing at all school masses, sharing music that uplifts and inspires both students and faculty. Their club meetings often include food, fellowship, and open discussions that create a welcoming space for all.
As the club’s President, Daniella Johnson ’26 explains, “We just try to create a community where people can hang out and know there are others like them. It’s a space that’s open to everyone, but especially a place where Black students can feel supported and understood.”
By telling personal stories and highlighting Black empowerment, BSU not only creates a sense of pride within the members but also within the school. BSU educates and motivates the student body to celebrate their diversity, leadership, and community.
The Hispanic Latino Student Union (HLSU) celebrates the greatness of Latino culture while fostering a sense of belonging on campus. Each year, the club organizes cultural events, discussions, and fundraisers that highlight Latino traditions, history, and contributions. One of their most impactful events is Kermes, a vibrant festival that brings together students, families, and staff for food, music and celebration while also raising funds for Hispanic initiatives.
This year, HLSU is also singing at Mass in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, further strengthening the club’s presence in the spiritual and cultural life of the school. As HLSU Vice President Michelle M. Garcia ‘26 explained, “Our main goal is to make everyone feel comfortable; whether you’re Hispanic, Latino or not. Everyone is welcome, and we focus on representing Hispanic and Latino students on campus while creating a fun and welcoming environment.”
The HLSU President, Lukas Pascal-Gonzales ‘26, shares about his involvement in HLSU and the impact it has on his life: “What inspired me to get involved with HLSU was the sense of belonging and connection it gave me early on in my time at this school. … Ultimately, what motivates me is the opportunity to bring people together, highlight the richness of our traditions, and make sure every member feels the same welcome and support that I experienced when I first joined.”
By getting involved in HLSU like Lukas, students from all backgrounds can participate in events, share in traditions, and experience the warmth and community that the club brings to CCHS.
The Polynesian Club on campus also brings such special traditions of Polynesian culture to life at Cathedral through music, dance, and community gatherings. Like BSU and HLSU, members perform at an annual school mass, bringing energy and heritage to a wide audience through song and movement, turning each performance into a cultural celebration. Beyond masses, the club hosts events where students can experience and participate in traditional Polynesian dances, taste authentic foods, and engage in activities that highlight the customs of the islands.
Leader of the club Alofaia Talataina ‘28 says, “We encourage all students from different backgrounds to join the club. You do not need to be Polynesian descent to be in the club. Our club members are also very welcoming to everyone who joins.”
Through these experiences, the Polynesian Club not only preserves and honors its roots but also creates opportunities for the entire Cathedral community to learn, participate, and connect in meaningful ways.
These cultural clubs like BSU, HLSU, and the Poly Club, showcase the diversity of the student body through music, dance, food, and storytelling. By celebrating heritage and creating inclusive environments, these clubs allow every student to connect, learn, and experience the diversity of different cultures at Cathedral.
