September 25, 2024 — This year’s convention provided a chance for members to experience a piece of the cultures that make up PEF and New York State. PEF is made up of a broad and diverse group of workers from various backgrounds and faiths.
The Multi-Cultural Showcase was put together in partnership with the PEF Black Caucus and the members who make up the many cultural committees at PEF, including the Jewish, Indo-American, Caribbean and Hispanic Committees. Executive Board member Gwendolyn Culpepper organized the evening and served as master of ceremonies.
“We are glad you all could join us tonight for some really good food and an opportunity to celebrate each other and our cultures,” said Culpepper.
Members were treated to culinary delights from across the world, like Pernil (roasted pork) from Puerto Rico, various curries from India, Jamaica and Trinidad, as well as traditional staples in African American cuisine, like fried chicken and cornbread.
PEF President Wayne Spence was in attendance and shared the history of the PEF Black Caucus, explaining how the group, while still connected to PEF, is its own entity.
“When the caucus formed, 46 years ago, leadership at the time did not want to fund an African American committee, due partly to how membership dues were deducted,” President Spence said. “So the group formed outside of PEF, but still as a part of the membership and the union.”
Culpepper brought up leadership from the Jewish Committee, Indo-American Committee, Caribbean Committee and Hispanic Committee, to share poems, stories, songs, and even recipes that uplift and celebrate their cultures.
For Carrie Saunders, the President of the PEF Black Caucus, the event was not only a success, but a beautiful sight to behold.
“The PEF Black Caucus is a little bit of everybody,” said Saunders. “And that is what our food this evening represents.”
Saunders thanked everyone for attending the celebration and asked that members, African American or not, join the Black Caucus. Members from any cultural background who are interested in joining any of the other committees can do so as well.
The night did not end quietly, as members took to the dance floor to join committee members and fellow delegates to work off a little of the around-the-world cuisine.