By Judith Hope Kiconco
The recent US presidential debate sparked a surprising social media frenzy—with countless posts and memes about eating pets, prompting me to delve deeper into this online chatter. I reflected on the underlying assumptions behind the statement, “They are eating the pets.” What does this say about our own cultural biases and food preferences? And what can we learn from the diverse culinary traditions that exist across the globe?
Indeed, in many societies, dogs and cats are cherished companions, while in others, they’re viewed as a source of sustenance. Rather than challenging our assumptions about what’s acceptable, this contrast underscores the beauty and richness of cultural diversity. In Uganda, we have a myriad of such examples.
Four years ago, Dr Otile posed a question on Twitter (now X): “Why don’t my people from Western Uganda eat fish”? The post garnered 94 likes and ten reposts, sparking a fascinating discussion. The responses ranged from how fish consumption affects cows’ milk production to the availability of alternative sources of the same nutrients found in fish. White ants, in particular, are a popular snack in some regions. Personally, I must confess that every time I witness people enjoying them, I feel a strong urge to recoil – it’s a culinary preference that I can’t quite stomach!
You will agree with me that our religious and cultural beliefs shape our dietary choices. For example, our Muslim and Seventh-day Adventist brothers and sisters abstain from pork, considering it forbidden or unclean. Yet, pork is a mouth-watering delicacy for me and many of my friends – so much so that when I need a break from the hustle and bustle, I often crave an excellent pork joint with friends. It’s not uncommon on my favourite 25-man WhatsApp group called Circle of Friends for someone to post a kisaniya of nicely made pork, followed by a request to meet up. These examples illustrate that cultural differences are not limited to pet consumption. They permeate various aspects of our lives, shaping our values, traditions, and preferences.
Instead of passing judgment on those with unconventional food preferences, we should strive to comprehend their perspective. This understanding is the cornerstone of fostering greater empathy and tolerance in our increasingly globalized world. It’s not about agreeing with their choices but respecting their cultural context and the reasons behind their preferences.
For instance, a person from a culture that considers dogs as pets might find it difficult to understand why another culture would consume them. This lack of understanding can lead to judgment and conflict. By embracing this diversity and approaching it with empathy and understanding, we can build strong bridges of tolerance and foster a more harmonious world.
Ultimately, our cultural differences are what make us unique and intriguing. So, the next time you encounter a food preference that differs from yours, remember that it’s not about right or wrong—it’s about perspective.
Embrace this diversity, and who knows, you might discover a new delicacy!
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