Food is like language, one that can connect people with very different backgrounds. It is through food that I managed to connect back with my country and find comfort in nationality without nationalism. I felt good in my own skin when making food for people and happy to call it Mexican without caring that heavy political bagage. I think everyone can participate in a different culture through food and as a soft power element can help to connect antagonist in a positive way.
Mexican food in Taiwan has a short history, but it’s thriving and slowly getting into locals’s hearts. Expats from many different countries come together to break tortilla and enjoy a good taco. Not many people talk about it, but this is part of a global cultural heritage that connects people. And thanks to reviews, it’s easier for people to mark distinction between empowering appropriation and bullying the other.
I hope to contribute to this conversation by bringing interested parties together to share their views on food and authenticity in a casual an relaxed way.
#localguidesconnect