A movement of underground restaurants has taken off in recent years, with private dinner parties among strangers being hosted world wide. This phenomena is surely the result of online communication, the same world-changing action that has made the environmental and social justice movements advance with unprecedented momentum in the last decade. Cook the Vote unites the community building of a private supper club with what is, or should be, on most American’s minds right now: the upcoming presidential race.

A non-partisan event, Cook the Vote is advanced social networking with a dual purpose: 1) To provide the best, local seasonal food ingredients in a gourmet meal at a reasonable fee (something traditional restaurants, which generally speaking, either compromise on quality or charge exorbitant prices, cannot provide), and 2) to unite community and create an alternative media outlet for discussing our country’s politics.

This weekend, a Cook the Vote feast was held in a private home in Berkeley. A delectable three course Mediterranean style dinner with a Persian flair was served, right along with a healthy portion of grassroots democracy. The evening was moderated by a proctor who had done his homework and the topic of the evening was focused on just one candidate, Barack Obama. The intent is to continue hold dinner parties, to discuss all the candidates, and to follow the progress of the election, right up until the BIG day.

The dinner attracted a diverse crowd, from supporters, to skeptics, to the formerly disconnected coming forward to re-connect. After the last two presidential elections, many Americans have been disheartened at their ability to affect political change. On the other hand, there is also an ever-increasing network of people who believe that change is on the horizon. Cook the Vote, brought artists, performers, financial analysts, Internet professionals, chefs, activists, parents and bachelors together at the same table, to discuss a concern relevant to everyone in this country, its leadership.

The night provided insights, connections, and a room full of full bellies. Just like the environmental movement, Cook the Vote inspired me to be involved and educated about the vote, rather than apathetic. Connections like these are the force that is changing the world, right before our eyes. If we rely on traditional media outlets for passive information, we are doomed. Conversely, underground events like Cook the Vote contribute to an informed and active populous. Serve democracy at your next meal and participate in Cook the Vote.