St. Paul – Feeding Our Souls: The Essence of Black Joy

Minnesota Humanities Center is excited to host, “Feeding Our Souls, the Essence of Cultural Joy,” food series. Food has always played a pivotal role in shaping our identities and communities. It binds families, showcases heritage, and promotes understanding. Our program delves into this unique intersection of food and culture, inviting participants to explore the rich narratives behind every dish. Join us at the Minnesota Humanities Center, where beloved local chefs and cooks will showcase dishes that speak about their cultural backgrounds. Through interactive “taste circles” attendees will be encouraged to share their own memories and traditions related to food, further enriching a collective experience.

Our first event in recognition of Black History Month is Feeding Our Souls, the Essence of Black Joy. Participants will engage in the cultural richness of food, music, and historical research that defines the essence of Black joy.

Featured Chef – Chef Gerard Klass’ culinary expertise is inspired by the richness of his Caribbean and African American heritage. Prior to co-founding Soul Bowl with his wife Brittney, he had over 10 years of experience at Kaskaid Hospitality as Executive Chef where he opened new restaurant concepts in the South, East Coast and Midwest. Soul Bowl has been featured in a number of local, regional and national publications and was awarded one of the top 50 restaurants in Minnesota by Minneapolis Saint Paul Magazine two years in a row.

Food Commentary – Steven Montomery is a social studies/ethnic studies content lead for the Minneapolis Public Schools and designed lessons for educators with a creative approach to teaching the richness and history of Black cuisine. Steven’s family upbringing influenced his interest in food stories that led to his passion for finding ways to inspire students to expand their own pride, self-identity and confidence in themselves.

Special Performance – Ginger Commodore is a singer, songwriter, & actress. She performs jazz, blues, rhythm and blues, contemporary, and gospel music and regularly appears at local club venues The Dakota Jazz Club & Crooners Supper Club. Ginger is also currently a Teaching Artist with the Vocal Essence Witness Program.

Registration

Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org

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