Food can build cultural bridges across Iowa

As Iowa and the nation continue to heal from the devastation the COVID-19 pandemic inflicted on small businesses, education and way of life for so many, it’s also important to consider the cultural impact. Sadly, there were nearly 3,800 hate incidents reported to the Stop AAPI Hate center between March 2020 and February 2021. It has become abundantly clear over the past year that hate still exists in America. However, I know we can overcome this disease.

As many celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, Iowans should embrace this opportunity to explore AAPI culture so that we can put an end to these horrifying crimes. An easy way to discover new cultures is through food experiences. Everyone needs food to survive. But life is about more than surviving, it’s about experiencing new cultures and connecting with your fellow man.

Global Food Discovery, Inc. was founded in 2019 and has a mission to bring cultural awareness, diversity, unity and education to Iowa in the form of free food. Removing financial barriers to everyone increases the likelihood of Iowans expanding their taste palates. Instead, we rely on donations through the Facebook donate button so we can continue hosting sampling events and cross multicultural bridges.

We recently partnered with the Iowa Asian Alliance to host a Community Connections food sampling event. It was fulfilling to see complete strangers from across the state come together to sample cuisine many had never eaten before. Having conversations to learn more about your neighbors’ interest, family and upbringing breaks down those cultural barriers that impede society from building bridges.

Our organization truly believes removing financial barriers is one of the best ways to spread cultural awareness. Thanks to social media platforms, patrons can easily contribute to a cause that will hopefully one day build cultural bridges across the state. Facebook’s fundraising feature has been a powerful tool to reach people across Iowa, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. From collecting donations to interacting with community members, social media will be an integral part of our success in reaching new audiences and growing our mission.

It is critical for all of us to explore opportunities to experience new cultures. Iowa has been the strongest when it has embraced new ideas and new cultures. Former Gov. Robert Ray encouraged refugees from Southeast Asia to find a new home — and new allies — in Iowa. Our state has already proven in the past that it can embrace new cultures and I am confident Iowa is up for the challenge again.

Bill Lu of Ankeny is director and founder of Global Food Discovery, Inc.