New UH Group Spotlights Albanian Heritage: Red and Black, We Keep It Intact
The University of Houston is buzzing with the spirit of the newly formed Albanian Student Association (ASA). This cultural organization aims to proudly educate and represent Albanian culture, filling a crucial gap for students of Albanian descent and those eager to learn about this rich heritage right here in Houston.
A Vision Born from Personal Experience
The ASA was founded by strategic communications junior Elisa Mulla, who recognized a significant need for such a group. Mulla’s journey began in high school, where she first represented Albania in a multicultural festival, sparking a desire to connect with other Albanians. However, finding a vibrant Albanian youth diaspora proved challenging, a difficulty she experienced firsthand even upon arriving at UH.
“This year, 2025, has been the first year that I’ve met more than one Albanian person,” Mulla shared, highlighting the isolation many Albanian students might feel. Her persistence stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of bringing cultural visibility not just to the University of Houston, but to the broader Houston community, where Albanian cultural offerings have been scarce compared to cities like New York.
Mission: Community, Culture, and Connection
At its core, the Albanian Student Association seeks to forge a stronger sense of community for Albanian students while simultaneously creating opportunities for everyone to learn about Albanian traditions, language, and culture. The organization warmly welcomes all students, whether Albanian or not, fostering a vibrant space for cultural exchange on campus.
So far, the ASA has actively engaged the UH community through tabling events, raising awareness about their presence and mission. Looking ahead, their calendar is packed with plans to host engaging language and history workshops. Beyond academics, they envision lively social events, including cultural cookouts and dance gatherings, to celebrate and share Albanian heritage.
The Distinct Identity of Albania
A key aspect the ASA aims to highlight is the unique identity of Albanian culture, particularly its language. Political science junior Katerina Berisha emphasized this point, stating, “Albania has its own language branch. We are not tied to Latin, we are not tied to Germanic. We have our own specific language line. That’s something people don’t realize about our culture.”
Educating students on such facts is vital for preserving Albanian culture and ensuring its continued appreciation within the campus community. Berisha hopes that through the ASA’s efforts, students will gain a deeper understanding and respect for Albania’s rich history and distinct heritage.
Snapshot of Albanian Cultural Aspects
| Aspect | Albanian Culture | Common Perception / Other Comparisons |
|---|---|---|
| Language Origin | Distinct Indo-European branch, unique to its own line. | Often mistakenly grouped with Latin or Germanic languages. |
| US Community Hub | Primarily concentrated in New York. | Historically less represented in Houston, spurring ASA’s creation. |
| Cultural Values | Strong emphasis on unity and heritage preservation. | Reflected in their slogan: “Red and Black, We Keep It Intact.” |
“Red and Black, We Keep It Intact”
The ASA’s powerful slogan, “Red and Black, We Keep It Intact,” perfectly encapsulates their core mission: to maintain unity and safeguard Albanian culture. This phrase has quickly become a recognizable symbol of their presence, proudly displayed on posters and tabling materials across campus, fostering a sense of solidarity among members.
Contributing to UH’s Diverse Tapestry
The establishment of the Albanian Student Association significantly contributes to the University of Houston’s overarching commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion. By providing a dedicated space, students are empowered to share their heritage, connect with peers who share similar backgrounds, and build bridges of understanding across different cultures.
For founder Elisa Mulla, the existence of the ASA is a profound reward. “Our existence right now has been the biggest reward for me because I have wanted it for so long. We exist. We are up and running,” she expressed, underscoring the immense pride and effort involved in bringing this vision to fruition for the Albanian community in Houston.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Albanian Student Association (ASA)?
The ASA is a cultural organization at the University of Houston dedicated to educating and representing Albanian culture on campus and in Houston. - Who founded the ASA?
The ASA was founded by strategic communications junior Elisa Mulla, who recognized the need for an organization celebrating Albanian heritage at UH. - Who can join the ASA?
The organization welcomes both Albanian and non-Albanian students who are interested in learning about Albanian traditions, language, and culture. - What types of events does the ASA host?
The ASA plans to host tabling events, language and history workshops, cultural cookouts, and dance gatherings. - What is unique about the Albanian language?
The Albanian language has its own distinct language branch, meaning it is not tied to Latin or Germanic language families, setting it apart from many other European languages.
The Albanian Student Association at UH is a testament to the power of cultural pride and the importance of fostering diverse communities. Joining or supporting such groups enriches the university experience for everyone, creating a more inclusive and vibrant campus where every heritage can shine.
New UH Group Spotlights Albanian Heritage
