Haverford High School is home to many clubs that bring together students from diverse backgrounds. One of those organizations is the United World Club, led by junior Vivien Dan. The club works to create a welcoming environment and to educate students about lesser-known cultures. As an immigrant herself, Dan understands the challenges many newcomers face. 

“I thought it would be a good message to let everyone know we support you and you belong here,” Dan said. 

The club has already made a meaningful impact within the school community. Earlier this year, members held a bake sale that raised money for the Pro-Mujer Organization, which provides women in South America with access to quality healthcare. The United World Club also publishes articles regularly on its website to spread awareness. 

With current world events affecting many communities, club members believe providing a safe and welcoming space is more important than ever. The club recently organized a walk to welcome and support immigrant families at Haverford. Members emphasized that immigration is a core part of America’s history and identity, and they aim to remind students that diversity is one of our greatest strengths.

Junior and club officer, Penelope Mohr, said, “Technically, most people in the United States immigrated here. And that’s why the walk today is important to express support, no matter what.  Immigrants play as big a role in the community as everyone else.” 

Frequently, issues like these may seem far away and disconnected from daily life. But many here at Haverford have family members who have experienced the trials and tribulations of immigration. While covering the immense struggles her grandparents, namely her grandmother, faced in America after their immigration, junior Amelia Llobrera explained, “She was still adjusting to the fact that there wasn’t a house helper, and she was getting arm burns doing everything by herself. She only knew how to operate an air conditioner. No heaters, they didn’t have any moisture, and their skin would crack and bleed.”

Students say that stories like this demonstrate how immigration continues to shape families at Haverford and across the world. 

The United World Club meets every Friday in room 141. Its next fundraiser will be a winter bake sale to support an orphanage in Romania. All students are welcome to attend.