Food First

As Black History Month comes to a close, we reflect on the rich heritage and significant contributions of African Americans to our nation's food systems. This month has been a powerful reminder of the resilience, innovation, and enduring spirit of Black communities.

We've celebrated the achievements of Black farmers and food justice activists who are making strides in reclaiming land, securing resources, and ensuring equitable access to nutritious, culturally appropriate food. We want to extend beyond just this month to continue to advocate for food justice and emphasize the importance of fair and sustainable food systems for all.

As we move forward, let's carry the lessons and inspirations from this month throughout the year, continuing to support and uplift the vital role of African Americans in our food systems.

Let's honor this legacy not just in February but every day, to work towards a future where food justice and equity are realities for all.

Since our inception in 1975, Food First has amplified the knowledge and actions of black farmers in effecting social change. Through our collaborative work with social movements, we have shed light on the root causes of hunger and inequity, offering viable solutions to a food system that weaponizes food, exploits farmers, and perpetuates injustices in communities of color.

By creating these educational resources, we have strengthened the foundation of a deeply informed and broadly-based social movement that seeks to transform our food system for the better. As we look to the future, we firmly believe that together, we can change everything.

Your continued support and dedication are vital in our journey towards building a world where food sovereignty is accessible to all, where communities thrive, and where justice prevails. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission. Let's continue this transformative journey together.

At Food First, our core mission is to elevate the voices of BIPOC communities and tackle the unique obstacles that small-scale farmers, farmworkers, and marginalized groups face within our food systems.

We're dedicated to crafting initiatives that foster lasting, sustainable change, ensuring our food system evolves to be more inclusive and equitable. Our history of advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice underscores our efforts, driving us to work alongside communities to effect real transformation.

Our team's diversity mirrors the communities we champion, ensuring their perspectives shape our direction and initiatives. This alignment with community needs fosters a nurturing environment where meaningful, community-led projects can flourish.

Our aim is to cultivate a world rich in nourishment for all, breaking free from the chains of systemic inequalities that have long influenced access to food.

As we confront ongoing food insecurity issues, our resolve strengthens. Food First stands firm in its mission to advance food justice and sovereignty, working tirelessly to eliminate hunger and poverty. Through unity, dedication, and a shared vision of nourishment for every community, we are making strides towards a future where equity is at the heart of our food systems.

Food First aims to fight racism and oppression by elevating and amplifying the research, narratives, challenges, and solutions of Black communities in the US and the Global South.

We aim to leverage cultural storytelling, and digital organizing as tools to build collective resilience, cross-cultural and international solidarity and foster conditions that allow more people to recognize and tap into their own power and use it to strengthen their communities.

We support emerging local solutions that build social and ecological resilience and resistance to structural food system issues. This means supporting power building strategies that aim to dismantle oppression and injustice by bringing people together to affect long-term change.

Let’s stand in solidarity to support the vital contributions of Black communities in the fight for social and food justice!

At the heart of Food First's mission is the drive to forge a just, community-centric food system through the mobilization of broad coalitions.

Our journey has seen us spearhead national campaigns that call on Congress to prioritize small farmers and access to nutritious food through Farm Bill reforms, challenging the dominance of agribusiness.

Collaborating with partners like the HEAL Food Alliance, we've stood against corporate consolidation that threatens our farmers, workers, and consumers. By uniting diverse groups and harnessing the strength of grassroots activism, we are working to pivot policies towards prioritizing people over profit margins.

Food justice is about breaking down the barriers erected by oppressive systems, and it's through collective mobilization that we'll bring about the necessary change. As we mark fifty years of advocacy and support for , we're reminded of the progress we've made and the journey still ahead.

Our commitment to mobilizing for change remains unwavering, fueled by the belief that together, we can create a food system that is equitable, sustainable, and just for all.

Today's youth stand at the forefront of food systems change, embodying the promise of tomorrow while actively shaping the narrative of food justice today.

Recognizing their potential, numerous organizations are pioneering educational initiatives aimed at equipping young leaders with the knowledge and tools to spearhead sustainable solutions.

A prime example of such transformative work is the collaboration between our Food First Fellow, Shakara Tyler, and the Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network (DBCFSN).

Together, they crafted an educational curriculum that not only raises awareness about the food system but also empowers youth to champion initiatives that advance Black food sovereignty.

This innovative model demonstrates how communities can cultivate their own solutions to combat food insecurity and promote sovereignty.

As we honor the achievements of these young advocates, we're reminded of the power of education and activism to create a more just and equitable world.

At Food First, we're inspired by the unyielding commitment of Black food justice leaders who are forging a path toward equitable access to nutritious, culturally appropriate food for everyone.

Reflecting on our journey since 1975, Food First has stood at the intersection of land, food, and justice, advocating for a world where every community thrives.

The wisdom and resilience of Black communities, despite the legacies of colonialism and systemic injustice, guide us toward alternative models of food justice rooted in stewardship and equity. These communities offer visions of liberation and equality that inspire us all.

Join us in celebrating these powerful voices and the resilient strategies they bring to the food justice movement.

Food First’s mission is to end the systemic injustices that cause hunger and poverty through research, education, and action. We are committed to advancing emerging local solutions to the issues that plague our food system.

A critical aspect of our mission involves preparing the next generation of food system leaders. We champion programs designed to train and nurture the growth of diverse voices within the food justice movement, believing that a more varied leadership will inherently lead to a more equitable food system.

Through these concerted efforts, Food First is creating pathways for food justice activists to pilot community-based programs that not only address immediate needs but also sow the seeds for long-term systemic change.

By focusing on these key areas, Food First provides opportunities to empower those who are most affected by food injustice to lead the way towards a sustainable and equitable future.

We invite you to join us in this endeavor, to support and participate in a movement that redefines what it means to fight for food justice.

In the spirit of Black History Month, Food First renews its commitment to dismantling the systemic barriers perpetuating hunger and poverty. Central to our mission is the recognition of the historical and ongoing challenges faced by Black communities within the food system, shaped by racism and discriminatory policies.

We envision a transformative shift in global food systems—a shift from profit-driven motives to prioritizing people and the planet. Our dream is of a world where food systems are reimagined to support sustainable environmental practices, ensuring everyone has access to healthy, safe, and just food.

We honor the legacy of Black leaders and communities who have long championed the fight for food sovereignty and justice. As we celebrate Black History Month, let's commit to this journey of transformation together, creating a future where food justice is a reality for all.

Solidarity, a principle woven into the fabric of the movement, calls on us to stand united with Black activists and communities as they confront the challenges of food access, environmental justice, and agricultural equity. It's a commitment to shared struggles and shared triumphs, acknowledging that our liberation is bound together in mobilizing change in our food system.

Embracing solidarity means actively supporting initiatives led by Black communities, listening to and amplifying their voices, and acknowledging the systemic injustices that have long influenced food distribution and access.

As we champion these values, we not only honor the legacy of Black activists in the food justice space but also propel the movement forward to promote food sovereignty for all.

This Black History Month, we shine a light on the vital role of Black activists in the food justice movement, a testament to the power of inclusion in cultivating a fairer food system. These advocates work tirelessly at the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and social equity, striving to dismantle the systemic barriers that communities of color face in accessing healthy, affordable, and culturally appropriate foods.

Their efforts are not just about securing land or resources; they're about rewriting the narrative of food sovereignty, ensuring that every voice is heard and every community has a seat at the table.

By including Black voices in the dialogue around food justice, we acknowledge the diverse perspectives and solutions they bring to the table. These activists remind us that the fight for food justice is also a fight for racial equity and environmental sustainability. Their work, often rooted in deep historical knowledge and a profound connection to community, paves the way for a more inclusive and equitable food system.

As we move forward, let's commit to supporting and amplifying these voices, recognizing that true food justice cannot be achieved without addressing the systemic inequities that persist in our food systems.

The struggles of Black and Indigenous communities to secure rights that protect their rich heritage and traditional foodways are not just historical anecdotes; they are ongoing battles that call for our collective action and support.

The fight to secure land and heritage for Black farmers is a crucial front in the broader movement towards food justice and racial equity. By lending our voices to this cause, we join the advocates standing in solidarity with those who labor at the forefront of this pivotal struggle.

In observance of Black History Month, we spotlight the enduring plight of Black farmers, who confront systemic inequities in agricultural financing. This entrenched discrimination not only jeopardizes their ability to sustain and enhance their farms but also has broader implications for community welfare and the principles of food justice.

The challenges Black farmers face in securing fair loans are symptoms of deeper, systemic issues that necessitate comprehensive reform. These unfair lending practices stifle their agricultural endeavors, affecting not just individual farmers but the entire fabric of our food systems.

Our dedication lies in championing equitable financial practices that uplift every farmer, ensuring they possess the resources and knowledge essential for their prosperity.

Let us unite in advocating for policy reforms that guarantee justice and equality in agricultural financing, fostering an environment where the legacy and contributions of Black farmers are recognized and celebrated.

The harrowing stories of Black farmers denied loans shed light on the deep-seated discrimination within federal agricultural loan programs. This systemic bias not only jeopardizes their livelihoods but also perpetuates inequality in the agricultural sector.

As an organization committed to food justice, Food First stands in solidarity with these farmers. We advocate for transparent, fair loan practices that ensure equal opportunities and wages for all farmers. It's crucial that we address these injustices to create a more equitable and just food system to build a community that fights for fair and just treatment for all people.

In celebration of Black History Month, we turn our focus to the resilience and struggles of Black and Indigenous farmers within an agricultural system steeped in systemic racism. These dedicated stewards of the land face a multitude of injustices, from inequitable subsidies that favor large agribusinesses to the daunting challenge of securing funding and resources in a competitive landscape dominated by corporate giants.

These obstacles extend far beyond mere financial hardship; they are the contemporary manifestations of a historical legacy of discrimination that has long sought to marginalize and silence these communities.

At Food First, our commitment to food sovereignty compels us to stand in unwavering support of these farmers. Their fight for equity and access is integral to our collective mission to forge a food system grounded in justice, inclusivity, and sustainability. By confronting and dismantling these systemic barriers, we can pave the way for a future where the agricultural field is as diverse as the crops it sows.

This Black History Month, let's amplify the voices of Black and Indigenous farmers and intensify our advocacy for policy reform. Together, we can cultivate change and nurture an agricultural landscape that celebrates equity and ensures that every farmer has the opportunity to thrive. Join us in this vital journey towards a more equitable and just food system.

As we commemorate Black History Month, we are called to spotlight the systemic challenges that Black and Indigenous farmers face in the agricultural landscape.

Their struggle extends from confronting biased subsidy policies to battling the monopolistic practices where mega-corporations dominate, creating insurmountable barriers for small-scale farmers. These issues are not mere economic inconveniences but are deeply entrenched in a history of racial discrimination, blocking equitable access to essential farming resources and land.

Our mission at Food First transcends mere advocacy; we are committed to dismantling the systemic obstructions that taint our food systems with injustice. Standing in solidarity with Black and Indigenous farmers, we champion their right to reclaim their ancestral lands and to farm with dignity in an equitable environment.

The battle for food justice is interwoven with the fight against these systemic barriers—it's a call to action to ensure all farmers have fair access to the resources necessary to thrive. Our dedication to food justice is a pledge to honor the legacies of these resilient farmers.

We are determined to advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and fairness, creating an agricultural sector that supports all, regardless of race. Let’s work to build a future where food justice prevails, ensuring that the roots of our food systems are as diverse and rich as the communities they nourish.

Let's go back to the beginning...At the dawn of the 20th century, Black farmers made up approximately 14 percent of all U.S. farmers, stewarding over 16 million acres of land. Fast forward to today, now, Black farmers represent a mere fraction of the agricultural community, holding less than 5 million acres.

The plight of Black farmers is woven into the fabric of American history, marked by a struggle for equity and justice against a backdrop of entrenched racial biases. These lands, imbued with stories of perseverance, symbolize more than agricultural productivity; they represent the soul of communities, a connection to ancestry, and a beacon of hope for future generations.

Addressing this issue requires a collective effort to champion policies that provide legal support and fortify land rights for Black farmers. It's a call to action for all of us to stand against the systemic injustices that jeopardize their livelihoods. Advocating for these farmers goes beyond preserving land; it's about affirming their rightful place in the agricultural narrative of our country and moving closer to a future where justice and equity flourish.

In supporting the preservation of land rights for Black farmers, we contribute to a broader movement towards rectifying historical injustices. Every acre retained marks progress towards a more equitable and just agricultural system.

Join us in this vital cause to foster sustainability, equity, and cultural preservation within our food systems.

This Black History Month, we're embarking on a journey to highlight the vital role of Black farmers and food justice advocates who are pioneering change within our food systems. It's a time to not only celebrate their invaluable contributions but also to delve deep into the historical and ongoing challenges they face.

Our series will uncover the rich history of Black agriculturalists, spotlighting the barriers they overcome and the pathways they're forging toward equitable food sovereignty. Through sharing stories of resilience, hope, and transformation, we aim to illuminate the strength and perseverance of those at the forefront of the food justice movement.

Join us as we honor these champions of change, whose efforts are essential in our shared quest for a just and sustainable world. Follow their inspiring journeys at www.foodfirst.org 🌱

Today, we stand in commemoration of the profound legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose dream of equality resonates deeply within our mission at Food First—a mission dedicated to forging a more just world where all people have agency over their food, food choices, and the food system.

Dr. King recognized the systemic forces that cause hunger and poverty and thus criticized the capitalist pursuit of profits over human needs.

As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, Food First commits to continue working to increase food access, affordability, and autonomy for all. We will keep organizing, advocating, and working until all communities can consistently secure healthy, culturally-connected food.

This MLK Day, let’s pause and reflect on Dr. King's enduring legacy to fight for justice for all.

🌱 In the heart of our cities, even the coldest winter can't stop the seeds of hope from sprouting. ❄️👩‍🌾

🤲🍲 Food insecurity remains a stark reality for many, but together, we can change this narrative.

🌟 At Food First, we're committed to dismantling food insecurity and poverty, one community at a time.

🥕🍅 Through our programs, we aim to provide a resources that uplift at-risk community, help farmers cultivate resilience, and create hope for under resourced communities struggling with the devastating effects of hunger and poverty.

🌿We stand resolute in our commitment to mobilize collective action to fight for equitable food access for all.

🙌Together, we can ensure that no table is without food, and no heart is without warmth.

🔗 Let's unite to create a world where food is a right, not a privilege. Stand with us: www.foodfirst.com/support

''When we feed our community, we nourish hope.'' 🌍🌟

🤝

As the holiday glow gently fades and the year comes to a close, one thing remains certain: our mission to reshape our food system and ensure everyone has access to nutritious food.

With your unwavering support, we've made significant strides in addressing the critical issues of hunger, poverty, and nutrition. Our programs have touched the lives of many, offering hope and assistance in communities where it's needed most. But our work is far from done.

Just as a farmer must plan and prepare the ground for the planting season, we must cultivate change through collective action and supporting those who are fighting for transformation in our food system. As we transition into the new year, we are asking for your support for us to continue our mission of fighting against hunger and poverty.

This is why we're calling on you today to give generously. Your contribution will fund the programs that are reshaping our food system and creating a more just and equitable world for all. Every dollar you donate brings us one step closer to our vision of a world without hunger and poverty.

Visit www.foodfirst.org/support and be a part of the positive change we're creating.

Together, we'll continue to shine a light on these important issues, ensuring that the holiday spirit of generosity and compassion extends far beyond this season.

Thank you for being a beacon of hope and change in the lives of those we serve. 🌟🌍❤️

🌍✨ If you haven't had the chance to make your year-end donation to Food First yet, we want to extend our heartfelt invitation to join our cause!

By making a year-end gift, you become an integral part of our mission to eradicate hunger and poverty. Your support enables us to continue our vital work, from expanding our programs to advocating for policies that drive real change.

Together, we can create a brighter future where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to nutritious food. We seek to uplift and empower small-scale farmers so they can nourish and sustain us.

As we approach the year's end, let's not just close the book on 2023; let's write the beginning of a new chapter filled with hope, compassion, and positive change.

Make your year-end donation today, and let's step into the future of food justice together: www.foodfirst.org/support

🌟 As we wrap up this year, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to each and every member of the Food First community. Your unwavering support, your passion for change, and your dedication to our mission have made a remarkable difference in the lives of many.

Your generosity has fueled our work, enabling us to spearhead community-based food justice projects, provide nutritional education to our youth, and advocate for policies that address the root causes of the critical issues of hunger and poverty.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, let's do so with hearts filled with hope and determination. The challenges we face may be many, but so is our resolve to create lasting change in our food system. With your continued support, we're confident that we can make 2024 a year of even greater impact.

Thank you for being an essential part of our Food First family. Together, we'll keep shining a light on the issues of hunger, poverty, and nutrition. For next year and beyond, we'll work to build a world where everyone has access to nutritious food and equality. Want to see what a single seed can do?

‘’Every seed has the potential to save the world.’’

Make a gift today: www.foodfirst.org/support

At Food First, our mission is to advocate for food justice, grassroots change, and reducing hunger and poverty through our programs and research for change. By supporting Food First, you are providing resources that will create transformational change for at-risk communities.

This holiday season, support efforts to lift the voices of those who have historically been underrepresented in our food system. Your support can help us achieve our vision of a world where no one is without access to basic necessities and sustenance.

‘’What is a legacy? It is planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.’’

Give today and be a part of our movement to build a brighter future for all: www.foodfirst.org/support.

The countdown to the new year has begun! In the spirit of the season, we want to thank our loyal supporters!

With your support, we were able to provide resources to food justice activists who created lasting change in their respective communities.

This year, our Fellows built community-based food justice projects that helped feed shut-in families, provided nutritional education to our youth, and created a curriculum that enabled Black growers to build cooperative spaces for collaborative learning and coalition building.

The seeds they have sown have helped transform their communities. Despite all odds, our Fellows have cultivated a plentiful harvest that will sprout seeds of change for generations to come. Their work has grown a garden of community, empowerment, and social justice.

‘’The tiny seed knew that in order to grow it needed to be dropped in dirt, covered in darkness, and struggle to reach the light.’’

This holiday season, plant a seed of social change: www.foodfirst.org/support

Wishing you a Merry Christmas! We hope you enjoy time with friends and loved ones!

We only have a few days left in the year! Help us make a strong finish in the fight against hunger and poverty.

Donate today and be a part of a cause that is nourishing those who need it most. At Food First, we are always in the spirit of giving!

For almost 50 years, we have remained resolute in our commitment to fight against food insecurity and poverty.

We hope you will find it in your heart to make a gift that will reap benefits for generations to come: www.foodfirst.org/support

Your support has powered us throughout the year to fight for food justice. Your support has allowed us to provide the necessary resources so local food justice advocates can co-create community-based solutions to nurture food sovereignty for all.

As we approach the new year, let's continue our journey together towards a hunger-free world. Please consider giving a gift of hope for those who need it most.

This holiday season, plant a seed of hope for those in need: www.foodfirst.org/support

This holiday season is a time for gratitude and coming together in spirit. But for too many families, hunger remains a harsh reality.

At Food First, we believe in grassroots organizing to advance the food justice movement that both includes and supports at-risk and BIPOC communities.

We envision a world where everyone has the right to nutritious food. Join us in our fight against poverty and hunger!

Your contribution matters. The seed you plant today will reap a harvest for generations to come: www.foodfirst.org/support

Our history at Food First is rooted in advocacy and research for action in the fight for food sovereignty for all. This holiday season, support a cause that's changing lives and nourishing communities.

By donating to Food First, you become an ally on our journey to transform our food system so no one is left behind.

We hope you will find it in your heart to make a gift that will reap benefits for generations to come: www.foodfirst.org/support

Since 1975, Food First has led the way in advocating for a more fair and just world. As a grassroots organization, we focus on using a bottom-up approach that emphasizes participation of the local community to co-create solutions that drive meaningful change.

By mobilizing and organizing at the local level, these communities can address the root causes of food injustice and advocate for lasting sustainable solutions.

This , give the gift of change. Help us in supporting the next-generation of food justice leaders as they implement solutions that uplift the communities and improve lives of the many suffering from issues of inequality, food scarcity, and poverty.

Take action now to be a part of our mission to eradicate the root causes of hunger.

You can do twice as much good right now — our Board has committed to match the first $1,000 donated. We’re on a mission to raise a minimum of $2,000 by end of day but we still need your help. This match challenge is an incredible opportunity to maximize your impact. But we only have one day left to reach our goal!

Will you donate today to have your gift matched?

Donate today: https://foodfirst.org/support/giving-tuesday/

We are deeply grateful for your support!