Juneteenth Cooking Workshops

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual celebration commemorating the emancipation of African Americans from slavery in the United States. It is observed on June 19th, marking the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all enslaved people were now free.

First celebrated in Texas, Juneteenth gradually spread across the United States and has gained increasing recognition as a significant cultural and historical event. Today, Juneteenth is observed not only in the United States but also in other countries as a way to honor African American heritage and the ongoing journey toward racial equality.

During Juneteenth, various events, discussions, and exhibits take place to honor and acknowledge the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It is also a time to reflect on the continuous struggle for racial justice and address the challenges that persist in our present day.

Black-eyed peas, also known as cowpeas, are a staple in African American cooking, particularly in the southern United States. They have significant cultural and historical significance for the African American community.

One reason for their importance is that they have been a reliable crop for enslaved people and later, sharecroppers. They are drought-resistant, easy to grow, and could be left in the field to dry, making them a perfect crop for people with limited resources.

They are also considered a symbol of good luck, particularly when consumed on New Year’s Day. This tradition is said to have originated with enslaved people who were allowed to eat black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day, which was one of the few days off they were given. Eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day is said to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

Black-eyed peas are also considered a symbol of resilience and perseverance, as they have been able to sustain people through difficult times. They are also a symbol of community and coming together, as they are often served at family gatherings and community events.

Overall, black-eyed peas are a symbol of the African American community’s rich culinary heritage and their ability to create delicious meals from limited resources.

Fried chicken is a staple in African American cuisine, particularly in the southern United States. It has significant cultural and historical significance for the African American community.

One reason for its importance is that it was a dish that was often made by enslaved people and their descendants. It was a way to use inexpensive cuts of meat and make them more palatable through the process of frying. Additionally, it was a dish that could be made in large quantities, making it perfect for feeding large families or for serving at community gatherings.

Fried chicken also has a strong association with the idea of “soul food,” which refers to the traditional cuisine of African Americans in the southern United States. Soul food is characterized by its hearty, comforting dishes that often use ingredients that were readily available to enslaved people and their descendants, such as pork and chicken.

Fried chicken also has a strong connection to the history of African American entrepreneurship. Historically, many African American-owned businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, were known for their fried chicken. These establishments often served as important community gathering places and provided economic opportunities for African Americans.

Overall, fried chicken is a symbol of the African American community’s rich culinary heritage and their ability to create delicious meals from limited resources. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations and continues to be a beloved and iconic part of African American cuisine.