Caterers in Denver have been excited about the potential of being chosen to serve at the Democratic National Convention this summer. That is, until they read the RFP.
Fried foods are forbidden at the committee’s 22 or so events, as is liquid served in individual plastic containers. Plates must be reusable, like china, recyclable or compostable. The food should be local, organic or both.
And caterers must provide foods in “at least three of the following five colors: red, green, yellow, blue/purple, and white,” garnishes not included, according to a Request for Proposals, or RFP, distributed last week.
Except for the combination of red, white, and blue because that has become a substitute for “true patriotism”.
I will have to say that it is refreshing to learn that the Democratic Party is committed to making their events eco-friendly and not just concerned with dictating everyone else’s choices.
Still, I can’t help but be struck by the contrast between this article and the one I read this morning about the increase in people needing to utilize the food shelf.
While regular folks are figuring out how they are going to feed their families, the toughest issue weighing on the minds of those planning the DNC convention is:
Compostable products, such as forks and knives made from corn starch, are often imported from Asia, delivered to the U.S. in fuel-consuming ships. But some U.S. products are made from recyclable pressed paper. Which decision is more environmentally sound?
Indeed, there are two Americas, Sen. Edwards. Those who can afford all organic foods and those who cannot.
Look, I do not begrudge the Democrats’ their right to spend their money however they choose. After all, it is their money.
It’s just that they claim to be the party that cares about the poor and working class. Just imagine what kind of statement they could make if they went with a slightly less pretentious soirée and donated the money they saved to a food bank.
Or is feeding people strictly the government’s job.
