Inaugural Decolonial Dinner

Sankofa Sanctuary's Decolonial Dinners:

We tend to take the foods we eat daily for granted. Not just for their abundance, but for their stories, their origins, their significance. The culinary landscapes of the colonized world often embody ancient practices, many of which have been transformed by the long and violent history of imperialism. In this series, we disentangle the pre-colonial roots of food traditions preserved by our diverse communities and diasporas. Join us and nourish your appetite for history as we retrace origins of these nostalgic dishes. It's our belief that in returning to the source, we can nurture food practices that bring health and healing to the individual, the community, and the planet . As we unearth the old, we inspire the new!

This month's cuisine hails from Somalia!

There are no Somali restaurants in Vancouver, but Somali food lives in homes, in the warmth of a shared meal. This is not a regular night at the house, this is a feast. Bajiya, crispy fritters, start us off. Canjeero, a staple flatbread, lays the foundation and holds everything together. Hilib Suqaar, a quick, simple, and comforting beef stew, feels like home. Cagaar, a spiced spinach stew, adds freshness and balance. Bisbas Shidni, a tamarind hot sauce, brings the heat. And of course, there’s Somali tea, sweet, spiced, fragrant, and always a necessity at any gathering. This isn't just about food – it’s about history, home, and holding onto what nourishes us. Come ready to eat, learn about the origins of the food, and gather with community.

Host or Publisher Sankofa Sanctuary