Reasoning & Evidence
Connecting over food is only possible if we have access to it. There are local, state, and federal policies that can influence how readily available and affordable healthy food is to communities, particularly those who are underserved. For example, efforts like the USDA’s Indigenous Food Sovereignty Initiative are particularly important for Tribal nations, which seek to (re)connect with Indigenous food practices. [You can learn more about tribal food sovereignty and access resources to support it through the Indian Health Service’s and Administration for Native Americans’ websites.] Other factors include zoning laws that determine the feasibility of urban agriculture spaces within a city, financial incentives for farmers markets, and support for nutrition education programs. At a time when food-related funding and programs are being slashed, it is more important than ever to advocate for food security for all.
Examples of Community Implementation
Seattle, Washington: The City of Seattle’s Urban Food Systems Program (UFS) recognizes the role that local governments can play in strengthening food security and community resilience. Most recently, the UFS secured funding through the city’s participatory budgeting process to initiate and sustain urban agricultural sites.
Food Policy Councils (various): Food Policy Councils are multi-stakeholder coalitions dedicated to addressing food systems needs and issues through local, state, regional, or tribal policy.
Reference: The SOCIAL Framework Report: Food and Nutrition Sector