More than a place to eat, The Palava is a community
Posted by metroafrican on Feb 25, 2009 in In the News • No comments
Photo of Harriet Natal by Hyoung Chang, The Denver Post
Sheba R. Wheeler posted a story in the Denver Post’s food section today about the Palava African Bar and Restaurant. She picked up on one of the things that makes the Palava truly unique. It’s not just about the food they serve, it is about fostering community.
Since it opened in 2007, The Palava has lived up to the Swahili translation of its name, “a meeting place” and community center. African immigrants from various nations frequent it for familiar food, music, culture and conversation. Owner Peter Nganga regularly supports nonprofits fundraising for Africa, offering organizations space to hold their meetings and events. Weddings, parties, singles meetings, and even African studies classes are held there.Palava symbolizes the African practice of interconnectedness among humans, called ubuntu in the Bantu language and umoja, in Swahili, says Lucas Shamala, an assistant professor of African and African-American Studies at Metropolitan State College of Denver.
“Food in African tradition and culture is not just about sustenance, it has social significance for uniting people,” Shamala says. “Whenever you want to speak about important issues such as government, politics and relationships, those discussions happen around food and drink.”
From their International First Friday events to opening their space to non-profit organizations, the Palava has been working to create a community gathering space. Check out the article, and if you have yet to visit the Palava, you might want to stop by for their Saturday afternoon movie and Brunch Special. Enjoy.
The Palava African Restaurant and Bar, 11002 E. Yale Ave., 303-317-4503; thepalava.com.
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