About 40 students and guests enjoyed different types of food such as cornbread, macaroni and cheese and creamed corn, while discussing the role of food in African culture at the ’DEIS Impact event, “Reclaiming Narrative through African Diasporic Cuisine” last Monday, Feb 1. The event was held in the Mandel Center Atrium.

The focus of this event was the importance of food in relation to identity and culture and the significance of food to different individuals. One central topic discussed was soul food and what it means to different people. Many people described soul food as food that makes them comfortable and food they are familiar with.

The event made students “more knowledgeable about the stories that surround the food we eat and the love, sweat and tears that go into making soul food,” said Edwin Morales ’19 to The Brandeis Hoot.

Others said that soul food is food they associate with home and represents people’s different backgrounds. “The food we have on a plate is often taken for granted, but a moment’s reflection allows us to understand the history and larger implications associated with it,” said Morales.