College can be an exciting time, filled with new experiences and opportunities. However, for BIPOC students, navigating a predominantly white institution can sometimes feel isolating. This is where initiatives like the BIPOC Family Dinners at Chatham University become invaluable, offering a sense of belonging and community that can be transformative. Danielle Thompson ’23, the driving force behind these dinners under the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI), has witnessed firsthand the profound impact they have. For students searching for a “Dinner Family Near Me” in the broader sense of finding connection and support, these gatherings exemplify the power of shared meals and community.
Danielle describes the BIPOC Family Dinners as exceeding all expectations, evolving into much more than just a monthly free meal. They serve as a crucial space for Chatham’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color community to de-stress, unite, and forge meaningful bonds. These connections are especially vital on a campus where BIPOC students may not always feel that fostering such relationships is a primary focus. The dinners create an intentionally inclusive environment, welcoming both regulars and newcomers alike. This consistent effort to build community ensures that every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
The essence of these dinners lies in providing a safe haven for BIPOC students to express themselves freely, share laughter, and cultivate relationships that might not naturally develop in other campus settings. While officially scheduled from 5-7pm, Danielle recounts numerous occasions where the conversations and connections extended late into the evening. Students simply needed that uninterrupted time to talk, to be themselves, and to exist without the feeling of constant scrutiny that can unfortunately be a reality for Black and POC students on predominantly white college campuses. For many, BIPOC Dinner has become synonymous with safety and joy, a cherished space where mutual respect and protection are paramount.
As a Black student who regularly attends, the author personally attests to the significance of BIPOC Dinner. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience of embracing safety, finding joy, and building lasting connections. The collaborative effort to safeguard and honor this space underscores its importance to the community it serves. For any student of color on campus seeking genuine community and a sense of “dinner family near me,” attending a BIPOC dinner is highly recommended. Experiencing this unique dynamic firsthand reveals the extraordinary power of community and connection in fostering a sense of belonging and well-being on campus.
