I think one big thing with food and race that is a hot topic is cultural appropriation.

The quote “I think one big thing with food and race that is a hot topic is cultural appropriation” by Sohla El-Waylly highlights the intersection of culinary traditions and identity politics. El-Waylly draws attention to how food, often seen as a unifying and celebratory force, can also be a site of controversy when it involves the misuse or misrepresentation of cultural elements—especially by those outside the originating community. The term cultural appropriation refers to the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another, particularly when it's done without respect, context, or credit.

Sohla El-Waylly, a prominent chef, food writer, and advocate for equity in food media, is known for using her platform to discuss complex topics around representation, diversity, and ownership in the culinary world. Her quote stems from conversations about how recipes, cooking styles, and ingredients from marginalized communities are often taken, commercialized, and celebrated—without acknowledging their origins or the struggles of the people behind them. This leads to a deeper conversation about power dynamics, authenticity, and who gets to profit from cultural cuisine.

In the realm of food, cultural appropriation becomes especially sensitive because recipes and cooking methods often carry deep ancestral, spiritual, and historical significance. When chefs or brands appropriate a dish without understanding its roots—or worse, when they alter or "elevate" it while disregarding its source—it can feel like an erasure of cultural identity. El-Waylly’s statement encourages greater awareness, respect, and inclusion in how we approach and celebrate diverse culinary traditions.

Ultimately, her quote is a call for dialogue and responsibility in food media and beyond. It urges us to consider how race, heritage, and power intersect in everyday experiences like eating and cooking. By recognizing the cultural weight of food and advocating for respectful engagement, El-Waylly contributes to a broader movement toward justice and representation in the culinary world.