<p>I’m trying to think how to address this without actually using a negative stereotype and offending myself. In a nutshell . . . watermelon has been used expansively as an overt negative image of black people to imply simplicity (in the worst way), lack of education and barefoot country status. People still use it as an image that says a thousand words (none good). While certainly AA people eat watermelon as do people of all colors and ethnic backgrounds, and it is a tasty and healthy picnic lunch food - putting it on the menu especially for MLK or black history month at best says that the menu planners didn’t do their homework and were operating based on cultural stereotypes. They may not have meant to be offensive (and that IS an image that is often used with intent to offend) but if the idea behind marking those days is broader understanding then a little thought and (dare I say it?) sensitivity would be in order.</p>