A Martin Luther King Jr. meal celebration in Owen Hall offended some residents, resulting in a multicultural dialogue addressing their concerns Thursday.

The meal, served on Jan. 19, included fried okra, fried shrimp, macaroni and cheese, yams and catfish.

Afterward, several residents approached the Residence Life staff concerned that the presentation of the food might lead students to believe all black people eat this type of food. About 15 people gathered in the Owen Hall main lounge for the discussion.

The specific meal was served only in Owen Hall and was presented in cooperation with the Residence Life staff.

"Our department is taking responsibility," said Nikki O'Brien, assistant director for staff development and diversity for the Department of Residence Life.

Owen Hall is a 21 and older residence hall and its cafeteria operates as an á la carte system. Students purchase each item on an individual basis with a debit card.

The intention of the menu was to have "a nice, Sunday-type dinner," said Owen Hall resident mentor Tamarie Bradley. "I'm from the south, and it's normal for us to celebrate like this."

Bradley said she brought the idea of southern food to the cafeteria staff and wanted the meal to bring a sense of unity to the hall.

However, University Housing and Food Services coordinator Bruce Haskell said, "What may be stereotypical to one person may be a wonderful representation of their culture to another."

The specific students who brought the concerns to the Department of Residence Life were not present to voice their opinions.

"We're hoping this is a learning experience," said Brad Ledingham, complex director of Owen Hall.