Celebrating Diversity at Eastman Institute with Cultural Foods
It’s an event held by Specialty Care a few times a year that new EIOH residents especially enjoy and faculty and staff always look forward to.
“It’s amazing!” Dr. Anjan Thyagaraajen, about the International Luncheon. “We have a very rigorous schedule and it’s nice to have a little time to eat together and enjoy these delicacies and home cooked foods.”
Everyone brings a dish to pass representing their native countries. Many scrumptious entrees, appetizers and desserts from Mexico, India, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Bulgaria, Italy, Brazil, Pakistan, and Bangledesh were enjoyed by all.
Among them was Papdi Chaat, brought by Dr. Thyagaraajen. It’s a tasty Indian street snack made using chickpeas, potato, mint, cilantro paste and tamarind. Mexico native Dr. Gloria Galindo Caro, brought homemade to-die-for tostados. Dental Assistant Hadel Alyobi, of Iraq, made Khaliyh Nahl, a delicious cream cheese-filled dough, baked with a sweet syrup and topped with nisella seeds. Mita Hossain, of Bangledesh, brought mouthwatering chicken kabobs.
Dr. Mohammed Elsaid brought two dishes: mini hawashi, a popular Egyptian appetizer made of pita bread stuffed with meat and seasonings. The second was the rich dessert baklawa, which disappeared in minutes.
“These special lunches are a wonderful break from the intensity of the clinic and classes, and an opportunity to strengthen connections and friendships,” said Dr. Nadejda Stephens, associate director, Specialty Care.
“I have been in places where being different was frowned upon,” the Bulgarian native said. “But with Eastman being such a diverse place, it feels like home to everybody. You don’t feel different or excluded here. We enjoy promoting positivity and togetherness, and the international lunches are one way we do that.”
Dr. Waldir Filho, an AEGD resident from Brazil was excited to taste some of everything. “I love it! This is a wonderful opportunity to taste new food from other countries and learn about different cultures,” he said. “I’m learning so much, and I’m extremely glad to be here.”
Dental Assistant Janet Fleary agreed. “It’s important to take the time outside of the busy clinic to get to know each other, celebrate each other’s backgrounds, enjoy delicious food and laugh together.”
“I really appreciate how well the faculty here embrace differences,” added Dr. Thyagaraajen.
“We enjoy creating opportunities to learn from each other and unite for the greater good, especially during times of uncertainty,” Dr. Stephens said.
Author
