No one can deny that eating plays a central role in just about every society. From cultural events such as the Black History Month opening ceremonies and the Hawai'i 'Ohana luau to the "free-pizza" tactic used to draw students in to club meetings and events, food provides a focal area around which we can gather together. Many foods have traditional or religious importance, making the act of eating become much more than a biological function necessary for survival; it is a ritual laden with cultural meaning that serves a vital social purpose.Therefore, it is reasonable that several cultural clubs have asked the Allocations Board (A-board) to provide funding for ethnic foods.

But, while the A-board does not deny the cultural importance of eating, it has recognized that it cannot always provide the funds requested by clubs for lavish culinary experiences. This is in no way meant to slight the clubs or their respective cultures, nor is it meant to undermine the importance of food to keeping a society, and not just an organism, alive. The A-board must distribute money among many campus groups, and funding food would overburden already-stretched funds.

The A-board would not be wrong to withhold funds for ethnic foods, as long as this policy would apply uniformly to every cultural club and not just those with limited members or more expensive culinary needs. That does not mean a compromise cannot be reached; a loan from the A-board could temporarily fund food, and ticket money collected could be used as reimbursement. By charging $5 to $7 a person -- much less than an off-campus dinner -- clubs could recoup costs.