Volxkuche

VolxKuche/VolxKüche (VoKu/VoKü), peoples kitchen, free supper club or kitchen for all, are names used by the alternative scene (left) for a weekly or regularly occurring group cooking event, at which the meal is served free of charge or at cost. The name derives from the older expression “people's kitchen” (soup kitchen), as the secular counterpart of the Christian soup kitchen.

Volxküchen are found usually in collective and/or self-managed arrangements (taverns, information stores, youth centers or autonomous centers) with politically left self-identity. In general at least a vegetarian meal is offered, frequently also offering vegan food. Often soon to be expired ingredients are obtained at cost, or donated by food banks, food manufacturers or community gardens.

History

The Volxküche in the current sense is derived from the European squatter scene of the early 1980s.

English spelling & pronunciation

The spelling of Volxküche occurred as an expression of anti-nationalism. Historically nationalism had used the term "Volks/Volx" with negative consequences. This use was a rejection of the negative connotation which had the intention of "excluding" many groups of German society. It is at the same time a funny self-willed expression of the anarchistic and/or autonomous scene.

In the USA the word is spelled without an umlaut. English speakers have trouble when they see an umlaut in a word or name. It often causes hesitation and is typically mispronounced. The alternate German spelling Volkskueche (Volksküche) was intentionally not used.

English speakers should use the following to help them when saying this word.

Folks Coo heh

See also

• Food Not Bombs
• Soup kitchens
• Homeless ministry
• Freegan

USA Locations

A twice a month 'Free Supper Club" in San Francisco is calling itself Volxkuche. Besides a free dinner, performances, film and community are provided.