A new series of lectures from Aramark will provide employees with the cultural background to many of the diverse food choices available in the United States today.
The first lecture in the series, “Beyond the Plate", coincides with Black History Month, and will provide information on the rich historical context of foods consumed by African American communities from culinary historian and acclaimed author, Dr Jessica B.
Harris.
Fenimore Fisher, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Aramark, recently interviewed Dr Harris about the historical significance of foods and meals associated with the African continent and their role in shaping America’s table.
Her insights provided the background for the lecture series which is being made available to encourage Aramark managers to better understanding the foods they serve.
A New York Times bestselling author, Dr Harris has written, edited, or translated 18 books, including 12 cookbooks documenting foodways from the African continent.
Her award-winning book, High on the Hog, is the basis for the acclaimed Netflix series under the same name.
She currently leades a team focused on African food at the Culinary Institute of America and contributed to the introduction of a cafeteria concept which reflects key priorities at the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture.
“I have long believed that the driver of innovation and equity is the study of history, and I was humbled to spend time with Dr Harris learning about the undeniable impact of Africa's influence on America's table,” says Fisher. “Our country is so fortunate to have her insight and we thank her for dedicating time to enhance our commitment to education and awareness to best serve our guests.”
I have long believed that the driver of innovation and equity is the study of history, and I was humbled to spend time with Dr Harris learning about the undeniable impact of Africa's influence on America's table ...
Aramark's vision is to embrace a culture rooted in fairness and respect, while empowering its people to make meaningful impacts in the global communities it serves. This commitment is reflected in the continuous evolution and enhancement of educational paths for employees. Chef Spotlight, which was launched in 2021 with the support of our employee resource groups, celebrates the diversity of Aramark's culinary talent and spotlights the chefs who have had an impact on the organization and its guests by focusing on recipes that honor tradition.
Aramark has reached thousands of its employees through educational resources focused on inclusive leadership, service, and recruitment practices, interrupting bias in the workplace, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Aramark's efforts have also been well recognized in 2023 by the Human Rights Campaign, Black Enterprise, Disability Equality Index, and Fair360.
"While receiving recognition is certainly appreciated and establishes relevant benchmarks, the opportunity to introduce our workforce to Dr Harris and the launch of Beyond the Plate furthers our commitment to people, planet, and the community, as articulated in our Be Well. Do Well. strategy." says Fisher.
This commitment is reflected in the continuous evolution and enhancement of educational paths for employees. Chef Spotlight, which was launched in 2021 with the support of our employee resource groups, celebrates the diversity of Aramark’s culinary talent and spotlights the chefs who have had an impact on the organization and its guests by focusing on recipes that honor tradition.
Aramark has reached thousands of its employees through educational resources focused on inclusive leadership, service, and recruitment practices, interrupting bias in the workplace, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Aramark’s efforts have also been well recognized in 2023 by the Human Rights Campaign, Black Enterprise, Disability Equality Index, and Fair360.
“While receiving recognition is certainly appreciated and establishes relevant benchmarks, the opportunity to introduce our workforce to Dr Harris and the launch of Beyond the Plate furthers our commitment to people, planet, and the community, as articulated in our Be Well.
Do Well. strategy.” says Fisher.
