It’s a universal language—one that people from anywhere in the world can understand and appreciate. People use it as an outlet for self-expression, the recognition of one’s heritage, and as a means of bringing people together. And what might this language be? Well, the love of food, of course.
ONU’s Latino/a Student Union (LSU) took this language and used it to spread awareness of Hispanic culture through their annual Hispanic Food Night. Amber Davis, LSU president, also said that the event was part of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Students were not only able to eat authentic enchiladas, but additionally learn how to make them. Amber said it was an opportunity for students to appreciate and enjoy real Hispanic food and where it comes from.
“Food is a huge part of Hispanic culture; it brings people together around a table and forces them to communicate. I was very pleased with how the event went because our food night did exactly this—we all got to know each other.”
This diversity could be seen at the dinner, where students from several different backgrounds were present, including: Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Japan, and Brazil, just to name a few.
Some played Ping-Pong while waiting for the food, while others showed off their dancing skills by demonstrating some of the dances from their country. Meanwhile, cultural music from all over the world played in the background.
Victoria Suarez, LSU secretary, feels that food itself is diverse, and so helps promote diversity. Depending on the area, different people have different ways of making the same thing, and it’s interesting to learn from that.
“I wouldn’t think of culture without food. It’s about more than just the food—it’s [about] family and togetherness. Food is always centered around something good or positive,” said Victoria.
Both Amber and Victoria felt that the event went surprisingly well. A lot of people were willing to learn and help, and it was that participation that made the event a success.