Food and cooking have always been a natural way for women to build community and bond.
The Women’s Centre has recently launched a new series of Inter-cultural Cooking and Women’s Issues workshops. These unique workshops offer women the opportunity to cook (and eat) a dish from a different country while learning about women in that country, the culture and the different social issues.
The entire workshop is facilitated by a woman who has experienced living in that respective country.
“The idea first started when we were brainstorming on how we could connect women with other women, while learning about global issues and social justice issues relating to women,” says Caterina Gut, Education Coordinator.
“We have had an amazing response. Women really love the workshops and have been asking for us to plan more.”
So far there have been workshops hosted by women from Mexico, Nigeria and India.
Aboriginal women also gave us an expanded view of Aboriginal issues within Canada and cooked Aboriginal food.
“You learn a broader view of culture,” says Gloria, one of the participants. “You actually get to learn from the women themselves. I now think differently about people from different cultures. It helps me respect them more.”
“It’s been great. It’s amazing how they tie in cooking with culture. It’s nice to see all the different cultures and people connect,” says Anna, another participant. “Everyone is so welcoming and friendly. It’s a great night out.”
Some of the questions explored in these workshops are: What do women’s lives look like? How are their lives different from ours? What can we learn from other women?
“In my workshop I talked about the differences between Mexican women and Canadian women. I also talked about ancient Mexican culture and indigenous women in Mexico. I loved doing it,” says Eugenia, who hosted the Mexican workshop.
There are more countries and workshops planned for the fall (Ukraine, Venezuela and Vietnam). Check the workshop calendar on the back page of this newsletter for more information.
If you are interested in attending or hosting an Intercultural Cooking and Women’s Issues workshop, please contact Sarah at 403-264-1155 or email sarah@womenscentrecalgary.org.