Episode 1

Culture Diaries: Episode 1

Dear New Yorkers,

Are you aware that people born in New York are the least likely to take advantage of their incredible surroundings? Although it may seem touristy, I have decided to explore New York City with one question in mind: Where do you find your culture in NYC? This is a large task, but it has to start somewhere, and I have chosen to start within my own community. Maintaining healthy relationships with our peers is vital to a strong city-wide environment, so I will take the time to learn from my peers and teach my audience along the way. So come along with me as one teenage boy takes on one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. 

If there's one thing that we all love about our culture, it’s the food. Food is tradition, part of our identities, and has been passed down for generations, connecting us with our ancestors. Food isn’t only a way to connect with our cultures but also a way to connect with others. By sharing our traditions, we can contribute to making our school community a safe and inviting space. Culture is not something to be ashamed of, it is what makes you different from everyone else, and by expressing our differences, we can all feel special. 

In today’s episode you’ll watch me try out a cultural food hotspot of an NYC high school student, Anika Gomez. I conducted an interview with Anika where I asked her about her heritage and how she embraces it. When asked about her family’s background, she responded, “I am half Czech and half Filipino.” Anika is proud of her heritage and she is excited to share that she finds her cultural craving for Filipino cuisine at Tradisyon, located in Hell’s Kitchen. 

Now it’s my turn to try it out…