FOOD FESTIVAL PROGRAM
Filmmaker and Northwestern University professor Marco Williams (center left) chatting with guests at QAI’s Food Festival in Washington, DC.
Overview The relationship between food and people is certainly one of the most ubiquitous ties amongst different cultures. Where many foundational institutions in society can lead to debate and division, sharing a meal with others tends to draw people together that may or may not share similar backgrounds or attributes. Food, and the universal enjoyment of it, is a great equalizer. In American history, one of the earliest stories of the nation, the story of Thanksgiving, is about establishing diplomatic unity through food after the Pilgrims shared a meal with the local indigenous people. Many other stories around the world can also attest to the importance of the proverbial “breaking of the bread” with others, especially when the diners are people of different races, faiths, classes, or otherwise. It is on this basis that QAI has prioritized
Qatar America Institute for Culture
the concept of “Food Festivals” to achieve our mission of bringing both Qatari and American communities together. Engaging our audience through food creates a unique connection that not only engages the mental capacity of our audience, but also their sense of taste and smell. It is because of these interactions that our guests feel more likely to share and to receive, much like a guest at a dinner table would be.
Butterfly Room Reception at the Houston Museum of Natural Science Late this January, QAI brought a large section of the Houston equestrian community together on the heels of QAI’s Expressions Artist Talk “The Arabian Horse: Lore & Legend” with Michael Byatt. This reception was crucial in engaging Houston’s scientific community through the Museum of
Natural Science, the sizeable Equestrian community located in Houston’s suburbs, local animal enthusiasts, and Qatari representatives. Reception attendees were able to meet with renowned Arabian horse breeder Michael Byatt and learn about his experience at the Al Shaqab Equestrian Center on a one-on-one basis. The reception also allowed QAI staff to dispel myths and misunderstandings that attendees may have had regarding Qatar, the Middle East, and the Islamic World at large. QAI also made the reception memorable by displaying classical Qatari equestrian gear, including intricate saddles and garb. Also, QAI offered attendees tote bags with small gifts and trinkets that would continue to remind attendees of the event – extending the impact of the gathering beyond the confines of the event and into their daily lives.
2020 Annual Report
9
