A Potluck of Cultures Celebrates Black History Month

The purpose was to celebrate Black History Month, but nearly 150 HHSA employees enjoyed food, fellowship and fun from many cultures at the first annual A Taste of Black Heritage event held last week in El Cajon.

East Region Child Welfare Services and Aging & Independence Services employees planned the celebration as an inclusive event that would highlight African-American culture while embracing the cultures of fellow employees.

“A team of African-American social workers planned the menu and contributed to making dishes,” said Lillian Asoera, protective services program manager for HHSA’s East Region. “There were also contributions from ethnic dishes from Ethiopia, Kenya and the Caribbean.

“Co-workers were encouraged to bring a dish that would normally be served in their own homes to embrace diversity.”

Employees dined on chicken, greens, sweet potatoes, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, and several desserts like sweet potato pie and peach cobbler. Some of the other dishes contributed included Asian lettuce wraps and Swedish cookies.

Jemison Benita, protective services supervisor, entertained event goers with music and everyone participated in a sing-along. The celebration also highlighted black history through the years during a presentation with inspirational quotes and photos.