The food we call soul food is slave food. We were forced to eat it.

This quote by Eric Adams, "The food we call soul food is slave food. We were forced to eat it," draws attention to the historical origins of what is commonly known as soul food—a cuisine deeply rooted in African American culture. Adams highlights the painful truth that many traditional soul food dishes originated during the time of slavery, when enslaved Africans were given the least desirable cuts of meat and limited ingredients, often the scraps left over from the slaveowners' kitchens. These limited resources forced them to create meals from what was available, leading to creative but often unhealthy dishes high in fat, salt, and sugar.

By stating that "we were forced to eat it," Adams emphasizes that this cuisine, while now celebrated for its flavor and cultural richness, was originally born out of oppression and necessity. It was not a choice but a means of survival under harsh and dehumanizing conditions. His words challenge the romanticized view of soul food, urging people to reexamine its roots and the lasting impact of dietary habits shaped by slavery and poverty.

Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City and a former Brooklyn Borough President, is also known for his plant-based lifestyle and advocacy for nutritional health, particularly in the Black community. After reversing his own type 2 diabetes through dietary changes, Adams became a vocal proponent of healthy eating and has often spoken about the need to address the health crises—such as heart disease and diabetes—that disproportionately affect African Americans. This quote comes from his broader campaign to educate people about the origins of their food choices and the importance of breaking cycles of unhealthy eating.

Ultimately, Adams’s quote serves as both a historical reminder and a call to action. It encourages individuals to honor their cultural heritage while also making informed, empowering choices about their health. By acknowledging the painful legacy behind soul food, Adams advocates for a future where cultural identity and wellness can coexist and evolve together.