Samosas, Enchiladas, Hummus and Rice

For ten years I taught in work-force development at Montgomery College.

During those years students from more than 80 countries participated in these classes and went on to find good jobs in the local economy. At the end of each class we held sessions where the students practiced interviewing for a job; I helped them deal with presentation and how to answer questions which are sometimes difficult and sometimes not allowed. Since this was at the end of the semester, we also celebrated the collective accomplishments with students--and teacher--bringing in food.

The tables would be covered with offerings from multiple cultures as members brought in some of their favorites. No one cared that we mixed Jasmine rice and sticky rice or that vegetarian dishes sat along side poultry and fish. We had naan and other flatbreads, hummus in many flavors, sauces that were mild and spicy; samosas were enjoyed on the same plate as chicken enchiladas. Beans and rice, spring rolls and salads, and of course, desserts were among our choices.

This is, of course, a picture of our changing county in miniature. As a county, we are learning about many cultures in different ways. Food is certainly an interesting way to do this. Restaurant options have greatly expanded in Montgomery County; one no longer has to go downtown to find "foreign" foods. Cuisines from around the world are now easily available in many county areas. Montgomery College indicates it serves students from more than 180 countries; it has nurtured an international student body and this can be seen in on campus food options and visually, in many forms of dress.

As I campaign across District 2, I am again encountering many of these people from diverse cultures. When I knock at a door, I may encounter a woman in a flowing sari or wearing an African headdress. I also hear from them, their excitement, as they indicate that this year may be their first chance to truly participate in the American rite of electoral politics--for the first time they will cast their vote. Some will place a sign outside their home, indicating that they, too, are taking their place and planting a stake not only in their yard, but in their new country. Some are also running for office and our ballot choices will reflect this in several races. I welcome their entry into the new county that we are weaving together from this world wide mosaic of cultures.

The Primary is only a bit more than 4 weeks away and days are becoming crowded. Do let me know if you, too, would like a yard sign or wish to walk with me in your neighborhood. Remember for upcounty residents, the closest early voting sites will be in the Germantown Recreation Center and at the Bauer Drive Recreation Center in Rockville. Early voting starts September 3rd and will be held through the 10th, including Labor Day, but not held on Sunday.