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Witness
Cousin's
How one local supermarket reflects the many cultural stories of one US city.
Last Modified: 14 Jun 2009 13:27 GMT



Watch part two

Filmmakers: Cameron Hickey and Lauren Feeney

For many Americans, their American story often begins somewhere else - be it the place they originally come from or the place where their parents originally come from.

In Philadelphia that story is being told by many of the newest residents of one of the oldest cities in the country around the table at Thanksgiving.

It is the tale of opportunity and sacrifice and dedication.

Cousin's supermarket has become part of their story and part of the Thanksgiving story as well.

This uniquely American holiday continues to blend the tales of the nation's earliest settlers with the ongoing waves of the newest arrivals.

On their shelves there is the cornucopia of culinary globalisation.

A new take on the centerpiece of the traditional Thanksgiving meal, Halal turkeys, share space with corn tortillas and collard greens, each a flag showing the varied origins of those who shop at this neighbourhood landmark.

Directors Cameron Hickey and Lauren Feeney have been shopping at Cousin's for years, and have always been fascinated by the diversity of the employees and clientele.

For them, one of the best things about making this film was getting to know their neighbours.

In their film they explore what continues a new holiday, the amalgam of new arrivals with old traditions on this nearly sacred, family centered holiday.

Source:
Al Jazeera
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