Members of HRAACF have discussed the disputewith Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III, whocounseled them to continue their dialogue with thefoundation.

"I have encouraged the Asian [American]Christian fellowship to continue discussion withthe foundation and have suggested that they stressthe cultural and ethnic nature of the dance theywish to present,' Epps said.

But Epps said he felt the foundation had thefinal word on a group's participation.

"It is the foundation's decision. I am justtrying to facilitate further discussion," he said."Cultural Rhythms is a wonderful event and we allwant to support it, whatever their decision inthis case."

Hing compared the HRAACF performance to aspiritual or gospel piece performed by a groupsuch as the Kuumba Singers, saying that both werecultural as well as religious expressions.

"The idea that we can separate culture fromreligion is I think a very Western idea," Hingsaid. "Our hope is to be recognized as having aunique contribution to the ethnic and culturalfabric of America."

This year's Cultural Rhythms festival willinclude about 20 performance groups