Rosalind Sadowski, chair of the planning commitee for the event Photo by KMG
By Helena Kaufman The Afro News Vancouver
On March 11, 2010 Oxfam UBC held its Hungry4Change fundraising event. Diners from all age, occupation and socio-economic groups came out on a rainy Vancouver night to Heritage Hall on Main Street.
Their presence supported the student-run club at the University of British Columbia whose local efforts raise awareness on critical global issues.
Event organizers briefed guests on the condition of more than a billion people of the world’s people living in precarious and vulnerable, food insecure situations. Diners were asked about their perceptions of food in the world and at their immediate tables.
The reality of the world’s disproportionate distribution of food was clearly demonstrated via the evening’s menu, and by way of its service. It was clear that every bite matters as event participants were seated in three distinct groupings. The group deemed to represent the affluent, 15% by world standards was served an appetizer salad and a meat based meal with more vegetables. The more vulnerable to disaster but managing 25% group got vegetable stew. Both groups enjoyed attentive table service and had water and bread baskets replenished often by student volunteers.
The majority 60% seated together only on chairs, were first asked to wait till the tables of the more well off were served. They were then asked to line up for their food which consisted of a bowl of rice and lentils doled out from a communal caldron.
Keynote speakers Dr. Alejandro Rojas, of the UBC Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Amarjeet Gill, Head Cook of Vij’s Restaurant, and Meeru Dhalwala, Co-Owner of Vij’s and Rangoli Restaurants focused on food insecurity from each of their community and culinary perspectives.
Student and guest speakers focused on the need to educate people and especially youth on the cycle of food. Their aim is to retrain attitudes and appetites towards sustainable choices and practices now and in the future.
All proceeds went to Oxfam Canada. To donate or for more information email: ubc.oxfam@gmail.com
