Opportunities to grow in knowledge exist all over the University of Wisconsin La Crosse, whether you would like to grow in your knowledge of poetry or your understanding of the world, UWL will often have a learning pathway. In celebration of World Anthropology Day on Feb. 17, the Archaeology & Anthropology Club is hosting a World Anthropology Day celebration on Feb. 24 in Room 3314 of the Student Union from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.  

Archaeology & Anthropology Club President, Arin Spierings said, “[It may] be a little strange to be celebrating a week after the actual day (February 17th), but it promises to be an informative and friendly event.” They elaborated and said, “To start, we’ll be having a presentation on the most notable anthropologists throughout history, followed by a fun cultural craft, and finished up by just having a fun board game/card game night.” Regardless of whether or not you are a part of the Archaeology & Anthropology Club, everyone is welcome to attend this event. The event can be found on MyOrgs as well as future campus informational events.  

For those who are unaware of the depth of anthropology and archeology, Spierings said, “Anthropology is, simply put, the study of humans. This includes everything from how humans evolved, how we form societies, what form culture takes, how we communicate, etc.” They also said, “There are four main subfields of anthropology, though none of the subfields are exclusive to each other. If you practice one, chances are you are also practicing another.” The four subfields include cultural anthropology, physical or biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistic anthropology.  

According to Speirings, though the study of anthropology is the study of humans and encompasses many forms of culture and societies there are many great impacts anthropology has on our society. They said, “One of the most impactful things anthropology does is bring understanding — sharing what is learned of a group of people that is different from our own, learning more about our bodies, learning more about how we communicate with each other, learning more about our past and our ancestors.”

In regard to the cultural significance of World Anthropology Day, Spierings said, “It is a day where anthropologists seek to share their research with the wider world. It’s a chance to bring new understanding to those who wish to listen.” They also explained. the importance of understanding, they said, “What that understanding is about will depend on whichever anthropologist is sharing. Part of the fun is that everything that anthropologists do can be so varied … [World Anthropology Day] serves as a way to demystify the field of study, as well as eliminating elitism that characterized pre-modern anthropology.”  

If you are looking for ways to learn more about anthropology or celebrate World Anthropology Day, Spierings said, “consider attending an online seminar or webinar, read about some anthropological research that is of particular interest to you, try to learn more about a group of people you know little of, watch a documentary.” The American Anthropological Association offers many resources on how to broaden your knowledge of anthropology as well as how everyone can celebrate World Anthropology Day.