Surely, in the light of history, it is more intelligent to hope rather than to fear, to try rather than not to try. For one thing we know beyond all doubt: Nothing has ever been achieved by the person who says, `It can’t be done.’ ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Food is the common denominator connecting us as humans on this planet.
It is both the most unifying and divisive element of our existence. It’s the critical factor between having and not having.
Food – its production, distribution and consumption – is a natural place for the start of any discussion or action on social justice.
The individuals and organizations listed on this page are working in different ways to fix what is broken in our systems and mindsets.
They are my heroes, though, because they offer that other critical element essential to our being.
Hope.
Frances Moore Lappe: Small Planet Institute
I read France Moore Lappe’s Diet for a Small Planet and Food First when I was fifteen. More than 30 years later, she continues to be an inspiration.
In 2001, Frances and her daughter Anna Lappe founded the Small Planet Institute, focused on challenging negativity in social and political activity and working towards democratic change.
Anna Lappe: Small Planet Institute
Roger Doiron: Kitchen Gardeners International
Founded by Roger Doiron, Kitchen Gardeners International has grown to a community of 35,000 people from over 100 countries who recognize the power of gardens to connect communities and cultures.
Danielle Nierenberg: Food Tank
Danielle Nierenberg’s Food Tank advocates for change while educating about innovative and successful developments in agriculture that have the potential to lead to more sustainable and equitable systems of food production and distribution.
Hope Blooms
Hope Blooms is pure inspiration. This successful business is operated by group of young people from Halifax, NS (my hometown) and grew out of a community garden project started in the city’s North End.
Marion Nestle: Food Politics
Marion Nestle’s is a voice of reason and rationality as she unpacks the politics of food, and cuts through the hype and misinformation that seems to dominate the food-related media.
Leave a Reply