Every July, the Taste of Chicago attracts over 1 million foodies to Grant Park to try the best cuisine the city has to offer. Inspired by the event, LT hosted the second annual Taste of LT Soul at 3:15 p.m. on Feb. 23 in SC D-103. Instead of featuring local flavors or featuring food prepared by students, the event focused on creating an opportunity to try all different types of ethnic foods.

“It reflects the richness of our culture,” Black/Multi Cultural Club Sponsor Elizabeth Watkins said.

While the Black/Multi Cultural Club spearheaded the idea, the Spanish, French, German, Italian, Chinese and PRISM clubs also participated. Each contributed food items that reflect the culture of their respective club. Funds for the event were provided by the Parent Teacher Organization, Watkins said.

“[The taste] was a resounding success,” Black/Multi Cultural Club President Kendall Collins ‘17 said. “I [saw] many people turning out to taste the diversity and culture of LT’s clubs.”

In addition to the food provided by the various clubs, the taste ordered meat from Robinson’s No. 1 Ribs. Additional items were provided by Mariano’s catering service. For example, the Black/Multi Cultural Club provided collard greens, mac and cheese, and barbecue chicken wings.

“There are kids all over LT who would never socialize with each other that are talking now because of the taste,” French Club Sponsor Anna Kostecki said. “It’s a perfect metaphor for America.”

In addition to the wide variety of food available, the Black/Multi Cultural Club also sold chocolate bars for the Special Ed. Scholarship Fund, Black/Multi Cultural Club Vice President Oriana Oyesanya ‘18 said. The money from the sales makes it easier for families to send students to college.

The PRISM club also gave away multi-colored cupcakes, Leader Mackenzie Thomas ‘19 said. While they are not an ethnic club, members believe that all diversity should be welcomed and celebrated, Thomas said.

“What a fantastic way to showcase different cultures,” John Cronfel said.