Attendees indulge in a feast of traditional soul food at the Food 4 Da Soul banquet, celebrating Black culture in Grand Rapids.
On February 19, Grand Rapids hosted its second annual Food 4 Da Soul banquet at GRCC, celebrating Black culture through food and community spirit. The event, organized by the Black Africana Student Union, brought together students and staff for an evening of inclusivity and delicious soul food. Attendees not only enjoyed a range of traditional dishes but also engaged in discussions about Black history and culture. Positive feedback highlighted the significance of such events in fostering a sense of belonging in the community.
The vibe was buzzing in Grand Rapids on February 19 as the community came together for the second annual Food 4 Da Soul banquet. Held on the first floor of the Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC), this event was all about celebrating Black culture, delicious food, and community spirit. With around 40-45 attendees, including students and staff members, the atmosphere was nothing short of lively.
The event was hosted by the Black Africana Student Union (BASU), which is dedicated to creating a welcoming space for Black students on campus. The energy was palpable, with BASU’s Secretary emphasizing their mission of inclusivity. It’s heartwarming to see students come together, celebrating their heritage and fostering a sense of belonging. One attendee shared how they joined BASU after being inspired by a recruitment poster, showcasing how small initiatives can bring large impacts.
At the heart of the evening was, of course, the food! The banquet brought together a mouthwatering array of classic dishes, highlighting exactly why soul food holds a special place in the African American community. Picture this: green beans with turkey bits, country-fried chicken, mac and cheese, topped off with peach cobbler and cake. It was a feast that not only satisfied the stomach but also teased the taste buds of those attending.
Cameron Hauenstein, a 22-year-old first-timer at BASU, mentioned that they came for the food and the fun, illustrating how these types of gatherings can act as a magnet for good company and great conversations. Ariel Wood, a media representative from BASU, chimed in about how much they enjoyed the mac and cheese and peach cobbler, items that did not go unnoticed by anyone at the banquet.
The banquet didn’t just serve up good food; it also served an important purpose: to celebrate and educate attendees about Black History Month. The night was filled with reflections on Black history and its power to inspire and guide future generations. Guest speakers shared insights about the significance of soul food, emphasizing how it has become a symbol of resilience and community.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. One participant remarked on the success of the event and expressed enthusiasm for attending future BASU gatherings. Clearly, BASU knows how to put on an event that resonates with students and faculty alike.
In a show of goodwill, BASU even offered leftover food to a cleaning staff member post-event. This gesture highlights the importance of community and how everyone plays a role in making events like these a success. After all, it’s the little things that go a long way in keeping spirits high and relationships thriving.
Looking ahead, BASU is planning to hold monthly events, and the next one is themed around Reading Month. Students are encouraged to join in—the gatherings take place every Wednesday from 12-1:30 p.m. in room 206 of Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall. Importantly, these events are open to all students, regardless of background, continuing the spirit of inclusivity that was so evident at the banquet.
If you missed the Food 4 Da Soul banquet, you won’t want to miss out on future gatherings. They not only spotlight Black culture but also bring everyone together for meaningful conversations and delightful experiences.
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