‘Do white kids eat rice?’
We asked for readers’ stories about the ethnic food they took to school as children
This week we’re running the stories of eight Canadians — the lunch they brought to school as kids, what made them feel embarrassed and what they would say to themselves and their parents now, in a series we’re calling Lunchbox Confessional. To see past stories go to thestar.com/ life. Wayne Reyes, 28, nurse, and dad Wilfred Reyes
The lunch: Sinigang. Tomatoes, onions, okra, long beans, bok choy and a tamarind soup base. A secret recipe with rice. Why was it embarrassing? I remember agonizing about my lunch, the fear of bringing rice to school. There was no microwave, I’d have to eat with a fork and spoon, and I knew that it would make the classroom smell — Filipino cuisine uses a lot of fish sauce. “Do white kids eat rice?” I’d ask myself. I just didn’t want the kids to question or ridicule it, since I was the butt of all the Asian-stereotype jokes, like having “eye slits” or “eating cats and dogs,” already. I just thought, “Why let them have more ammo against me?” It was the complete opposite of McDonald’s and Lunchables. For a kid trying to fit in and have friends, I decided the best option was to throw away my lunches, let them rot in the bottom of my backpack or even flush them down the toilet. My parents eventually caught on and started making me salami sandwiches, which was more “normal.” What would you say now looking back? I would definitely say sorry to my parents for wasting their time, money and energy. I’d say thank you for making sure I was never hungry, even making two meals, one for home and one for school. Food and Filipino culture are synonymous. Go to any party and you’ll be politely encouraged to eat until you can no longer move. It’s a sign of caring, love. I’d tell my younger self not to care so much about what others will think or say. The food is delicious, and you’ll miss it when you move out! Compiled by Evelyn Kwong. Stories have been edited for clarity and length.
If you’ve got a story or photo to share, use #lunchboxconfessional on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram