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How food transmits culture and ethnic identity in " Soul Food" & "Once Upon A Time When We Were Colored"

  As an African American, both Soul Food & Once Upon A Time When We Were Colored hit very close to home for me. These films accurately depict "The Black Experience" and how food plays an important part in our culture & lifestyle. For centuries Black people have had to change how we carry ourselves, how we speak, how we dress, but not how we cook. Cooking, like with all cultures, is a way for people of all walks of life to come together and make memories that will last a lifetime.

   Growing up, whenever I saw food being prepared with the same abundancy as this gif from Once Upon A Time... is when I went to family reunions. I don't know if you've ever been to a Black family reunion, but it's quite the celebration (I mean, just look up "Black Family Reunion Playlist" on Spotify and see how many pop up). Anytime I see or eat Deviled Eggs, I can't help but hear Before I Let Go by Frankie Beverly and Maze play in the background as memories of all of my older relatives saying "Y'all young folk don't know nothin bout this" as they rise from their seats to go do a choreographed dance. With soul food comes an experience. No matter what dish is being served, whether it's chitlins or sweet potato pie, soul food gives you a sense of comfort and homeliness. Almost as if an old Black woman is hugging you and assuring you that everything will be alright.


   When eating soul food, you don't feel as though you have to keep appearances. In many cultures, it is inappropriate to get your hands messy, but with soul food, that's not necessarily the case (this is not to say that soul food doesn't require table manners). A lot of soul food dishes are made to eat with your hands, which allows for a more intimate and personable connection when eating. African Americans constantly have to deal with battling between keeping their heritage & traditions and assimilating to a culture that will make it easier to thrive in the world. But taking the time to sit down with your family, eating with your hands, and letting your hair down can allow you to forget social expectations and enjoy your family and culture.



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