The South Asian Student Association (SASA) is asking students to dress up in their formal best to help promote children’s education in India.

SASA is hosting its annual Black and White event this Friday from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. The proceeds will benefit the Asha for Education foundation, an organization that aims to bring about socio-economic change in India through the basic education of underprivileged children.

This is one of the club’s biggest events of the year, and they are hoping for a good turnout, said SASA Vice President Poonam Nathu.

“This is a huge thing for us. Our goal is to make a difference and just the smallest donation makes such a big difference,” she said.

Nathu said SASA doesn’t have a surplus of funding, so events like the formal dance are really important. This event draws a diverse group of people, which is another reason why it is so special to the club.

“What makes this event unique and significant is the fact that it is geared toward bringing people together in an active and friendly environment,” said SASA President Janani Sivaloganathan.

The event will be hosted at Jasmine, a restaurant and lounge on 1100 4th Ave. Students who wish to attend do not need to sign up, but tickets can be purchased all week at the SASA table on the HUB lawn from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The event will feature hip-hop, bhangra and Bollywood music. Black and white semi-formal attire is a requirement.

The dance is open to all ages, though alcoholic beverages will be available for attendees who are 21 or older.

SASA is expecting almost 300 people at the event, nearly 100 more than usually expected.

Sivaloganathan hopes the crowd will be inspired to show up and have a good time.

“It’s a party with a purpose,” she said.

[Reach reporter Celia Hunko at news@thedaily.washington.edu.]