Episode 15: Hello, Inclusion! You Can Call Me Chicken

Written By Andrea McCoy

In an era where culinary inclusivity is being redefined, the narrative of fried chicken is no exception. Our journey unfolds as we explore the ever-hot topics of inclusion and fried chicken in Canada. This dynamic duo—a seemingly odd pair—challenges us to scrutinize the complexities of systemic barriers and culinary practices.

The Inclusion of Chicken

Our conversation revolves around Kentucky Fried Chicken's (KFC) decision to include Halal chicken on their Canadian menu, thought to be a nod to culinary inclusivity—a move that stirred a pot much larger than anticipated. Here, Andrea unpacks the societal dynamics and debates that surfaced, illustrating how inclusion as a principle often signifies different things for different communities.

But it isn’t all savory for everyone. Representatives from the Sikh and Hindu communities voiced concerns, highlighting how the preparation of Halal meats in compliance with Islamic dietary laws can feel exclusionary to others whose religious practices might not align. This illustrates the smoke screen of inclusion, where the attempt to be inclusive inadvertently leaves others feeling excluded.

True Inclusion

Hostion passionately describes inclusion as a perpetual process. It’s fluid, ever-evolving, and reflective of societal changes and individual growth. Together, we emphasize how the essence of true inclusivity is to address diversity without putting up fences. Inclusion is more than just a buzzword or an optic; it’s an embodied practice and when done without dollar signs as it’s goal, it cannot create the exclusion we think it creates.

Lessons From Fried Chicken

Through the lens of KFC’s story, we underline a crucial lesson: Inclusion should encompass the commitment to broad, meaningful integration—not just marketing efforts. Genuine inclusivity requires checks and balances that ensure promises translate into practices that resonate with all communities at the table. It includes full representation of all communities, with equitable and diverse spaces and for the sole motive of creating a happier, healthier and healing world together.

More Than Savoury Solutions

While navigating inclusion in culinary practices may seem like a trivial endeavor, “Inclusion, You Can Call Me Chicken” brings to light its profound ripple effects within broader societal paradigms. For companies like KFC, the pathway to true inclusivity demands more than headlines or social media commitments; it requires embedding these values at all levels of the organization.

As we work toward creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and valued, whether at a dinner table or in business decisions, it becomes pivotal to question and continuously improve how inclusivity manifests around us.

Tune into this thought-provoking discussion each week as Andrea and Hostion continue serving portions of Canadian wisdom, seasoned with humor, and sprinkled with the zest of heartfelt dialogue.

Andrea McCoy https://www.janklin.ca
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Episode 16: Defying Systemic Gravity
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Episode 14: Appealing To The Good