Dos Tierras

Why Chicano Soul Food

I began this journey to help bring about some ideas of enjoying food that was not as processed as much of the mexican american street food or taco shop food.

I never sought out to be an only vegan project although my thoughts are shifting into really activating that whole delicious side and experimental side of our project.

I simply wanted to be a bridge or a transition for the community. We as brown members of this community, the majority are not well versed in the possible outcomes of ingesting a high processed foods diet. It was a non compromise that I offered at least two vegan options anywhere our food was to be served. I understand the benefit of consuming plants but I was mostly interested in providing flavor to a segment of consumers who were extremely neglected. Too often I would work at places that when a ticket was modified to be vegan, it was as if the person was a leper. The lack of compassion for someone's food preferences inspired me to create tasty dishes for the market. My take on not being fully vegan is one of care but also receptive to another market who also chooses to incorporate this form of protein in their diet.

My business would not die off if consuming animal products was to be banned. I am not against that notion. However, if I go to the store and I see a piece of protein that was sacrificed to be consumed, well then I do my part to honor that animal and give it life again with the way I prepare for it to be consumed. My cart is an opportunity for the vegan but also for the person who has not had an introduction or has been curious to try unfamiliar food. My project began in at a time was a food desert and the need to make a difference. To just shout out a whole market, one in which maybe with some education can help with the shift.