In an effort to showcase and unify the school community through culture and tradition, the Black Student Union (BSU) is hosting its second annual Soul Food Friday on April 11th, in the cafeteria during first and second period.
Last year’s event was a major success. BSU raised approximately $1,600, which helped fund scholarships for their most dedicated graduating seniors. The remaining funds supported various BSU-hosted activities such as the cake walk during the Halloween Carnival and other events held throughout the school year.
This year, BSU will once again offer a variety of soul food meal options, each plate reflecting the richness of the African American cuisine. Soul food mainly consists of greens, mac and cheese, brisket, ribs and chicken. The meals are usually served with banana pudding, peach cobbler, and other desserts while drinks include lemonade and iced tea.
There are three different ticket options available: the $10 meal offers one choice of protein, three choices of sides, one dessert item and one choice of drink.The $15 meal offers the same items but with double the protein.The $20 Big Back Special includes a special meal item, with the rest remaining the same. Tickets are being sold during all lunches or can be purchased by scanning the QR code posted throughout the school.
Soul Food Friday not only serves as a fundraiser but also a way to educate students about Black culture through food. BSU members say the event is a chance to share traditions, bring people together and create a positive space that reflects the diversity of the student body.
Last year, the meals were well received by students and they believed that the event was an admirable initiative from the Black Student Union.
“My favorite food on the plate was the brisket, it was heavenly,” senior Peyton Seabert said. “I felt like it was homemade with love.”
The officers also look forward to improving the food and the environment of the Soul Food Friday this year in order to make it more special.
“We are looking forward to [elevating] the quality of the food and also promote Soul Friday,” BSU president Riayn Davis said “Compared to last year, we are more ready because we started the preparations earlier.”
BSU sponsors Trevin Franklin and McRae JoAnn are also eager for this event, they’ve helped the officers prepare for it and give them the support they needed.
“We want to host the Soul Food Friday to show the black culture with some good food for the faculty, the staff and specially the students in order to get together towards the end of the year,” BSU sponsor Trevin Franklin said.
