Toni grew up surrounded by strong, compassionate women who nurtured their families, served their communities, and cooked really delicious food – all while working outside of their homes, but she was disheartened as a journalist and culinary historian to discover their caricature in history and literature. With her books, classes, and lectures Toni accomplishes her career ambition to reclaim the reputation of these legendary cooks. She also is leading a national peace initiative that is rekindling the age-old tradition of the pie social as an edible monument that honors these unsung heroes of the kitchen while fulfilling Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream of a “Beloved Community.”