Just a few decades ago, nuclear threat was a topic that families openly discussed around the dinner table because the danger of the Cold War felt so real that it became everyone’s issue. Since then, as nuclear threat has continued to simmer—now reaching a boiling point— it has disappeared from the agendas of family and community meetings, becoming an exclusive issue accessed only by the ‘experts’ who understand its complexities. Yet to reduce nuclear threat, our society needs the participation of all citizens, especially marginalized groups who feel excluded from the conversation even though their lives are most impacted by nuclear danger and violence. It’s time for people to gather around the table again to ask questions, share stories and make plans for action together. Break bread over nuclear threat by hosting a community meal called Atomic Bonds, a dinner series concept originated by Lovely Umayam and N Square that brings diverse people together over food and drink to talk about nuclear issues through a lens of people’s real experiences. By building belonging around the topic, Atomic Bonds makes room for meaningful participation from a broader, more equitable range of people.

1. Consider how the food itself can reflect the theme. Minneapolis-based vegetarian restaurant Fit + Farrow hosts a Climate Supper Series in which climate activists and allies gather for discussion around a sustainable plant-based menu.
2. Enrich the evening with creative storytelling. NYC-based artist Devonn Francis, who  hosts a dinner series on community building and justice, uses the design of the event menu to explore his topics and invites a special guest to offer musical performances. 
3. Ambitious hosts may consider venues larger than a home to reach more community members. People’s Kitchen Collective in Oakland offers “food-centered political education projects that engage peoples in social movements” in inclusive community dining experiences.