photo courtesy of Annie Anderson.
MONTGOMERY Ala. — The AUM Department of Housing welcomed over 100 students to History of Soul Food, an event combining food and fellowship to offer students more than just a meal.
Junior graphic design major Kennedy Tate, the student leader of the event had this to say, “I’m glad everyone came. This is my favorite event every year.”
When asked what her goal was she said this, “I wanted students to come out and have a good time. I grew up on soul food.”
Students filled the space, lined up for plates and settled into music as the event unfolded. While the program was advertised as a celebration of the history of soul food, the event primarily consisted of providing a shared dining experience and light entertainment.
Freshman history major Riley Cannon said, “I love free food so this is my favorite kind of event. I just wish they taught more about soul food instead of just giving us soul food.”
The event featured a menu of traditional soul food including fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, cornbread, banana pudding and sweet potato pie. The crowd favorite was overwhelming macaroni and cheese.
While the event centered on soul food, the program did not include a formal presentation or educational addition about the history of the cuisine as mentioned in the title. Instead, the event mainly focused on fellowship and community among students.
Junior communications major Tyreanna Causey said, “They didn’t really teach about what soul food was. I didn’t really learn anything new.”
Soul food, which originated in the American South, is deeply rooted in Black cultural traditions and has historically reflected resilience and creativity in the face of limited resources. The dishes served at the event represent culinary practices that have been passed down through generations.
Students shared a general consensus of enjoying the event with the hopes of being able to participate next year.
With high attendance and strong student participation this gathering marked one of the department’s most attended programs of this year.
