“Join the New York Public Library for the World Literature and Arts Festival at Bronx Library Center for a discussion on baking and community.
Sugar, Spice, and Spirit: Finding Community in Baking at the Bronx Library Center will be a vibrant exploration of how sugar, butter, and flour can act as a bridge between cultures and generations. Moderated by Bronx Native Paola Velez, pastry chef and activist known for co-founding Bakers Against Racism, the panel brings together a diverse group of culinary leaders to discuss the deeper meaning behind their craft. Velez will guide the conversation with a focus on social impact, highlighting how baking can be a powerful tool for community building and personal expression.
The panel features Abi Balingit, author of Mayumu, Caroline Schiff, pastry chef and author who shares insights on the intersection of baking and mental health, and Justin Burke, a champion of queer voices in food whose work centers around building a stronger queer and trans community through baking. Together, these creators will dive into how baking serves can be a meaningful way to preserve cultural history while building a more inclusive future.”