(OCTOBER 5, 2023)
UTSA Libraries will host an informative lecture exploring the significance of milpa food in preserving indigenous culinary traditions. Featured speaker Lilliana Saldana, associate professor of UTSA’s Mexican American Studies program, will delve into the world of “Milpa Cuisine: The Vital Role of the Three Sisters – beans, corn and squash,” on Wednesday, October 25, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Assembly Center (4.04.22) of the John Peace Library.
Saldana will take attendees on a journey through the history and cultural significance of beans, corn and squash in sustaining an indigenous diet and ancestral memory.
"We are happy to unite students, faculty, and staff for this event," said Dean Hendrix, UTSA vice provost and university librarian. "With Pizza and Research, we serve a delicious lunch and illuminating insights from UTSA faculty, creating a recipe for academic camaraderie and inspiration."
Held every semester, this is the first in-person edition of the Libraries’ Pizza & Research series since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bi-yearly program aims to give UTSA students, faculty and staff timely topics to explore across disciplines and engage with researchers and professors within or outside their own field of study.
"I am honored to share insights about the ancient wisdom of indigenous diets,” Saldana said. “I invite everyone to join this enlightening journey and discover the rich heritage that lies within beans, corn and squash and the traditions of indigenous cuisines. This lecture is not just about food; it's a celebration of resilience, sustainability, and the profound connection between culture and nourishment.”
This lecture is part of the Libraries ‘Pizza & Research’ lecture series. Videos of previous presentations and journal articles relevant to the topics can be found at UTSA Libraries’ Pizza & Research Research Guide.
The lecture is free and open to all students, faculty and staff. Food will be served while supplies last.
