Joy and Justice in Black food traditions: The power of gathering

Joy and Justice in Black food traditions: The power of gathering

June 2, 2026 · 56 min

About this episode

Anthropologist Ashanté Reese discusses her book on the significance of Black community gatherings and the role of food in fostering connection and empowerment.

Anthropologist Ashanté Reese 's new book explores Black community gatherings—and the nourishment, fellowship, and strength they cultivate. Reese is an anthropologist, author, and Associate Professor of African and African Diaspora Studies at the University of Texas at Austin, where she teaches and writes about food studies and food justice. Her new book is called: Gather: Black Food, Nourishment, and the Art of Togetherness . Reese looks at Black church gardens, family reunions, funerals, and activist spaces—in all of which food plays a powerful role. She shines a light on how food can play a role in everything from nourishing body and soul to building power and food sovereignty.

People in this episode

Guest: Ashanté Reese

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Texas at Austin

Books & works: Gather: Black Food, Nourishment, and the Art of Togetherness

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