HUNGER BANQUET

Humanities

Hunger Banquet

Tuesday May 22, saw the inaugural "Humanities Hunger Banquet" to raise awareness of food shortages across the globe. 136 staff and students assembled with anticipation to see what their two dollars would get them for lunch.

Everyone drew a random ticket, which allocated them either a high (15% of the population), medium (35% of the population) or low income (50% of the population) and were seated in the room accordingly.

Low income earners sprawled on picnic blankets and sheets, middle income earners seated at classroom tables and high income earners sat at table cloth adorned tables with cutlery, plates and waiters at the ready. Everyone was then served a meal according to their income.

Plain rice, frozen vegetables and broth with milk for the low income earners, rice, fresh vegetables, butter chicken sauce, water and cordial for the middle income earners and beef stroganoff, rice, fresh vegetables, tea, coffee and biscuits for the high income earners.

Despite the situation and the food everyone was served, a great lunchtime was had by all.

Students and staff reflected on their experiences, expressing that they were perhaps disappointed with their food, however; felt a great sense of community, being able to share and chat amongst their peers whilst sitting in the low income earners. Those in the high income earners were very happy with their meal, but did feel slightly guilty watching the others eat and physically looking down on them whilst they ate.

Some ideas students could take home from the event to assist with world hunger, without donating money to charity were:

SAVE FOOD - reducing our food waste helps make the most of the precious resources we all rely on.
SEASONAL - when you buy what's in season, you're saving energy and resources for tomorrow.
MEAT - eating a vegetarian meal once a week helps grow more food for people who need it, whilst taking pressure off the planet.
SUPPORT - look for products and brands that ensure small-scale food producers get a fair deal.
COOK SMART - a few small changes to the way we cook can cut down on wasted water and energy.

Thanks to all the students and staff that supported this event, especially those that helped with set up, cooking and clean up.

We look forward to seeing you all next year!!