Feb ZoomCook Discussion: Onion rings, cultural appropriation and hidden systematic racism

 Enjo a few of the Poll answers some pictures from the February zoomCook. We made a batter for onions by scratch using all purpose flour. I intentioned to discuss, systematic racism (Aunt Jemima) vs. cultural approrpriation based on Charlie Murphy show. Discussing marketing really took off. Plus the onion rings cook really fast so it was a quick snack and powerful discussion.

Feb. ZoomCook - Onions Rings

The conversation that flowed naturally after each prompt is not captured but, here are some of the initial response to the questions: 

What influence your food purchases?

- Top factors: Taste, cost and availability. Quantity was also mentioned.

"...Food is not clothing, while I may boycott a designer, I don't have the means to always eat according to my social values."

The label of Aunt Jemima doesn't faze me. it's all about necessity of the item for me... and the quality depending on the product. 1st quality, 2nd quantity... then values.

I brought if for the Black face...

"The idea behind the label isn't pleasing me at all. I don't support Aunt Jemima brand as it is and truth be told, neither Uncle Ben's." 

Do you know who Aunt Jemima is?

5/7 Yes. YES!... Are you serious, yesss! 

1/7 -No, I didn't really understand how offensive the name was.

Did you have it right now or usually purchase Aunt Jemima products?

3/7 - Yes, it taste great. Yea, the pancake mix out of habit. The price is convenient.

Nope, but it's not sold in my supermarket. 

Aunt Jemina... no I don't buy Aunt Jemima products.

Um... I only brought her for this recipe, but I'm not a baker or cooker.

Will you purchase more of Pepsi Co. and Quaker Oats*(parent company of Aunt Jemima products) because they are changing the name to Pearl Milling*? 

I won't purchase more because they changing the name.. but I am not going to necessarily stop. If the price is right and it tastes great I will purchase it in a bind. However, now I am going to try to be more conscious.

"No. This is an example of performative allyship"

"No. This is just a tactic to ward off any potential law-suits. However, they have been asked before to change their name and declined. Furthermore, its not about how companies words, but how they act. What is really needed is Black representation in leadership, so decisions like these will be challenged."

"There are other companies changing their names too such as Uncle Ben's rice... however, what we need them to do is change their practices. Especially Pepsi." 

I agree, soda is so unhealthy. Remaking beverages could be another zoomCook. 

"When it all boils down, there are absolutely more brans that support racism/slavery/oppression and gentrification than we will ever know. We can always try to reach and expose them all. But some are just going to fall through the cracks. The only option is to grow your own food and make your own goods." -E.H