On Friday, January 26, the BCA community got together to watch the incredible IDA performances of 14 different cultures. Ranging from Korean to Afro-Caribbean performances, BCA students were able to view shows rich with traditions from varying backgrounds across the globe.

But what is IDA? IDA, or The International Day of Acceptance, has been a long-time tradition of Bergen County Academies, going back as far as 1999. IDA began with the aim to honor and celebrate the many achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., and his contributions to racial inequality and acceptance. 

The Academy Chronicle had an opportunity to speak with Haeun Jung, a freshman who participated in the KIDA performance, to learn more about and look into the actual process of making the whole show come to life. 

AC: Hi Haeun. Thank you so much for speaking with us today! What would you say the purpose of IDA is?

Haeun: Hey Kathryn! No worries, thank you so much for having me! I think the purpose of IDA is to bring everyone together through dances from different international cultures. We can connect with BCA students from different grades, showcase our culture, and have fun while doing it.

AC: That’s amazing! Why did you join KIDA?

Haeun: My neighbor is actually one of the leaders for KIDA, so she inspired me to join. 

AC: Do you have any experience with dancing before KIDA?

Haeun: Actually, I have never really danced before joining KIDA. I did take one or two trial lessons to learn K-pop, but it never worked out. So, KIDA was my first time actually learning how to dance.

AC: What did you do to prepare? 

Haeun: We practiced about two times a week, and gradually added more practices as the assembly date got closer. When the songs I knew the choreography to were played on the radio, I would always dance along so I would not forget the moves.

AC: What did you feel before, during, and after the performance?

Haeun: Before the performance, I did not feel worried at all, but once I was on stage getting ready to head out, I did start to become a little nervous. While performing, all I could remember were the bright stage lights, and everything else went by in a blur. After the performance, I felt great and relieved to have people like our performance. I usually have stage fright, but since there were lots of people I knew also going up with me, it got rid of all of my anxiety.

AC: Did you enjoy performing and the process of preparing for it? Do you have a favorite moment from IDA?

Haeun: I loved performing and preparing for the IDA assembly. The process was very fun and helped me realize that I love dancing even if I am not the best at it. My favorite dance was the song “Perfect Night” by Le Sserafim. Even though I did not participate in that dance group, I was still able to memorize the choreography just by hearing and watching them so many times. 

AC: What has KIDA taught you about your cultural identity?

Haeun: KIDA helped me learn the global influence of Korean culture and reminded me to stay proud of my heritage. 

AC: Do you recommend others to join next year?

Haeun: I definitely recommend that everyone joins IDA next year. Even if you cannot dance, the leaders are patient and can help you learn. Also, there are other IDA performances you can join besides KIDA, such as Armenian IDA and Indian IDA. 

The Bergen County Academies’ International Day of Acceptance (IDA) stands as a vibrant expression of the school community’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural celebration. As witnessed through Haeun’s journey, IDA allows for students to overcome their fears, explore new passions, and deepen cultural appreciation– all while having fun. 

Members of the IDA encourage all students to consider joining IDA next year and many more years to come and contribute their unique talents and perspectives to this enriching event. Whether through dance, music, or other forms of expression, IDA offers a welcoming space for students to come together, celebrate diversity, and make meaningful connections. By embracing the spirit of IDA, students can continue to build a more inclusive and compassionate community here at Bergen County Academies and beyond.