First, there is a real desire for local food sovereignty. For areas like Philadelphia, this means employing urban agriculture in substantive ways to grow significant amounts of food for locals. Sankofa Farm alone, a 3.5 acre farm, produces and distributes over 15,000 pounds of food each year. With increased investments like we’ve made in the Biden-Harris Administration, urban farming is increasingly a major part of our country’s and communities’ food sovereignty plans.
Second, nutrition security is a building block of food security, and both are equity issues. I heard in Philadelphia, and I have heard in other urban centers over the past few years, that availability of food is part of the problem, and availability of affordable and nutritious foods is the rest of the problem. We may not see “food deserts” in communities, but we may see a lack of healthy food options and a glut of calorie-dense or packaged foods that might be unhealthy for community members.
Thirdly, urban agriculture and community farming can be an innovative way to link all types of consumers to their food. I love the idea of connecting and empowering people to grow their own food both to increase understanding and world view and to provide locally sourced nourishment. At the event I heard about several innovative programs that connect students and community members to growing their own food. For example, at Sankofa, they empower community members to garden by providing raised beds, complete with soil and seeds. At some of the schools we visited with, students are bringing seeds and growing supplies home, or using donated beds, indoor hydroponic equipment, or local community garden plots to learn about and grow their own food.
Finally, I am uplifted by the wisdom displayed by our young people and the purpose with which they pursue their goals. The high school students, youth volunteers and farm employees impressed me with their dedication and service. Most grew up and live in the immediate community, and have applied a well-developed world view to address the challenges faced by advancing urban agriculture. They realize the importance of growing food for the local community and derive personal meaning from working the land.
The Equity Commission convenings are a special effort by many people dedicated to making a difference. I am proud to have taken part in this session as a small part of the Commission’s larger portfolio.
Source : usda.gov