Hello from the Lunchbox Shaming project team!
We have had a busy summer interviewing youth from three Asian communities about their school lunch experience when they were young. We are grateful that 17 people have already joined the study since July 2021 and shared their precious stories with us.
What have we learned so far?
Selected images of participants’ favourite foods growing up and packed school lunches.
Sadly, many participants experienced their food being shamed at school. We heard heartbreaking stories of participants being teased by classmates of “smelly” food, throwing away homemade lunches, or asking parents to pack “normal” lunches to fit in. But some also shared positive memories of their lunches being praised and adored, which opened up an opportunity to learn more about their food cultures. All interviewees also expressed deep appreciation for their families who packed their lunches everyday with love.
In response to our question “If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say to them?” participants shared heartfelt messages for children who may feel less than confident about their lunches.
It is our goal to analyze these stories and start a dialogue to make Canadian schools more inclusive of diverse food cultures.
What’s next?
We are eager to hear more stories! We are looking for 10-15 more participants, especially those who identify with Chinese or Filipino cultures. If you know anyone who may be interested, please pass our recruitment info!