Fourteenth International Conference on Food Studies

Abstract

This research uses content analysis to examine the media representations of Louisiana Cajuns in popular food shows. Similar to previous research on the topic, it highlights food as a central aspect of contemporary Cajun identity, with Cajuns depicted as industrious, self-sufficient, and jovial individuals deeply connected to their culinary heritage. At the same time, I also analyze how the portrayal of Louisiana Cajuns represents racial and gender ideologies prevalent in contemporary southern society in the US. Food media surrounding Cajuns tends to uphold idealized images of America as a melting pot, while minimizing the contributions of minoritized groups to food and culture. In closing, I discuss the importance of food as a way to mark cultural boundaries. The findings have implications for how food can be used to challenge or uphold gender and race as a social structure, as well as historized notions of the past.