Asian council offers relief (Photo by Austin Kilgore, The Daily Campus)

The Asian Council’s relief fundraiser for the tsunamis that hit Asia and Africa attracted a dedicated and enthusiastic crowd last night. Students gathered in the Hughes-Trigg Commons for music, food and a sense of community while raising funds for the victims.

“It’s a chance for SMU to come together and do something for people who really need the help,” said Sonia Chandiramani, the developmental chair of the Asian Council.

The Voices of Inspiration Gospel Choir kicked off the evening with a performance that brought all those in attendance to their feet. Additional activities included henna tattoos and shopping from jewelry and crafts donated by local merchants. Food was donated from Pei Wei and local Indian restaurant Chettinand Palace. Students could buy dinner tickets, money from which would go towards tsunami relief. There was also a donation station where anyone could give money.

Third year business student Joel Mathew was shocked when he saw television reports from south Asia showing the devastation, and felt like he needed to do something. “Whatever they need, hopefully we can help,” Mathew said.

The idea for the event came from members of the council according to Karen Click, the coordinator for Asian American student services.

“Students began calling and emailing me saying that we had to do something.”

Members of the council met once the semester resumed and decided to hold a large event to have the best chance of attracting people.

“I think that the event showed SMU cares about what happens around the world, not just locally,” Click said.