Demystifying and Decolonizing “Ethnic” Food

Presented by Vivian Onuoha

In the United States, there is a notion that there is no such thing as real American food. As Americans, we have adopted and altered food and culinary techniques from all cultures around the world. However, the stories behind the meals and dishes that we consume are often dismissed or fetishized. These foods are called "Ethnic," as a clear indication of being anything but "White." The history of "ethnic" foods in the United States is one shared by historically marginalized groups and people of color.In this workshop, discussion will be centered on "who defines our food?" This handout helps to identify assumptions about food to point to ways to empower members to fill included in the food purchasing and education in their co-ops.