UCLA Graduation Lei Traditions: A Celebration of Achievement and Aloha
Graduation marks a significant milestone, a transition from one chapter to the next. At UCLA, graduation season is a vibrant tapestry of ceremonies, receptions, and celebrations. Among the most cherished traditions woven into these festivities is the giving and wearing of lei, a custom deeply rooted in Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultures. These adornments, crafted from an array of materials, symbolize love, honor, and achievement, transforming graduates into vibrant embodiments of success and community.
The Significance of Lei in Graduation Ceremonies
The presentation of lei is more than just a gift; it's a cultural tradition steeped in symbolism. In Hawaiian culture, giving a lei represents giving from the heart, signifying a connection between the giver and the receiver. The lei itself becomes a visible mark of success, a way of honoring the graduate's hard work and dedication. For many Pacific Islander communities, this tradition serves as a powerful statement within an educational system that has historically underserved them.
At UCLA's Pauley Pavilion, where undergraduate commencements draw thousands of guests to celebrate the achievements of over five thousand students, the lei tradition adds a splash of color and cultural richness. As graduates turn their tassels and embark on their next journey, they are often draped in lei, symbolizing not only their academic accomplishments but also the love and support of their community.
A Kaleidoscope of Lei: Materials and Meanings
Graduation lei come in a variety of styles, each with its unique significance:
- Traditional Hawaiian Flower Leis: These leis, crafted from fresh flowers like plumeria, orchids, tuberose, or pikake, evoke the lush flora of Hawaii. Their fragrant aroma and vibrant colors make them a popular choice for graduates who appreciate natural beauty.
- Money Leis: A practical and festive option, money leis incorporate folded bills strung together, offering a tangible gift that graduates can use as they embark on their post-graduation adventures.
- Kukui Nut & Shell Leis: The kukui, or candlenut, symbolizes the light within, making a kukui nut lei a meaningful keepsake that represents the graduate's inner strength and potential.
- Ribbon Leis: Often customized with school colors, ribbon leis allow graduates to display their school spirit and pride.
- Candy Leis: A sweet treat for graduates of all ages.
The Growing Popularity of Lei on the Mainland
While rooted in Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultures, the tradition of giving lei has gained popularity on the West Coast, particularly in California. The state's large population of native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders has played a significant role in spreading lei awareness to graduates of all ethnicities and backgrounds.
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Florists and vendors across California have embraced the graduation lei trend, offering a wide selection of styles and materials. Some even source flowers and materials directly from Hawaii to ensure the authenticity of their creations. The growing demand for lei has become a boon for floral businesses, with graduation season often being their most profitable time of the year.
How to Participate in the Lei Tradition at UCLA
If you plan to attend a UCLA graduation ceremony, consider participating in the lei tradition. You can purchase lei from local florists, online retailers, or even vendors near campus. To ensure you get the perfect lei, it's best to order in advance, especially if you're looking for a specific style or customization.
When giving a lei, remember that it's a gesture of love and support. Place the lei over the graduate's head, allowing it to drape gracefully around their neck. This simple act carries a deep meaning, symbolizing your pride in their accomplishments and your hopes for their future.
Beyond Graduation: Lei as a Symbol of Aloha
The spirit of aloha, embodied by the lei, extends beyond graduation ceremonies. These garlands are often given on other special occasions, including birthdays, weddings, and even funerals. Whether made from fresh flowers, ribbons, or other materials, lei serve as a tangible expression of love, appreciation, and connection.
UCLA Graduation: More Than Just a Ceremony
UCLA's graduation ceremonies are more than just a formality; they're a celebration of diversity, achievement, and community. Graduates hear speeches that touch on the social issues that shaped their college years, offering guidance on navigating uncertainty and making a positive impact on the world.
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Chancellor Gene Block encourages graduates to embrace openness and connect with people from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of community both within and beyond familiar circles. Graduating seniors like Emily Yamane remind their classmates that they are part of a legacy of influential Bruins, inspiring them to make their own mark on the world.
As the alma mater echoes through Pauley Pavilion, students stand together, united by their shared experiences and accomplishments. Amidst the cheers and applause, the vibrant colors of the lei serve as a reminder of the love, support, and cultural traditions that have helped shape their journey.
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