A Small Needful Fact

Is that Eric Garner worked
for some time for the Parks and Rec.
Horticultural Department, which means,
perhaps, that with his very large hands,
perhaps, in all likelihood,
he put gently into the earth
some plants which, most likely,
some of them, in all likelihood,
continue to grow, continue
to do what such plants do, like house
and feed small and necessary creatures,
like being pleasant to touch and smell,
like converting sunlight
into food, like making it easier
for us to breathe.

Ross Gay

We operate in a food system founded on exploitation and racism. The violence inherent in that system still harms and threatens Black Americans today.⁠⠀
⁠⠀
Building a better food future is impossible if our institutions and systems do not offer justice, safety, and equity.⁠⠀
⁠⠀
We know that we’re not the people or the organization to lead this movement. We’re committed and grateful to learn from Black authors, farmers, teachers, artists, speakers, activists, coaches, and facilitators and support their leadership.⁠⠀
⁠⠀
Let’s make space for those voices to be amplified and heard. Learn. Listen. Show up.