About Us
Growing healthy food. Building stronger communities. Restoring democratic values.
About Food + Farms + Democracy
At Food + Farms + Democracy, we believe that in order for our communities to have a healthy future, there are three main components that need to be in place: a healthy food system; sustainable agriculture; and active citizenship.
Our goal is to understand and explain how food, farming, and democracy relate to one another and foster thoughtful discussions among those interested in working together to develop a more resilient, just, and sustainable future. We also know that the problems facing our world -- including food insecurity, environmental decline, low levels of civic engagement and increasing divisions within society -- are very connected. Therefore, in order to address these issues, we will need to collaborate, innovate, and reaffirm our commitment to the common good.
Our Vision
We envision a society where each individual has access to wholesome foods, where each community has the tools it needs to thrive, and where each citizen has a voice in determining how they want their community to evolve. By developing strong local food systems, supporting sustainable farm methods and promoting democratic engagement, we can establish communities that will be more capable of adapting to the changing conditions ahead of them.
What we believe in
Systems for growing healthy food that serve all people
Healthy food is much more than something that is used for sustenance — it is a source of physical and emotional health, cultural identity, and community building. We support organizations that aim to increase access to wholesome food by promoting secure food supplies (food security), developing local agriculture (local food systems), using land responsibly (land stewardship) and ensuring that everyone has equal access to nutritious food.
Supportive sustainable farming practices and thriving Rural Communities
Farmers are critical to preserving ecosystem balance and providing food for our communities. We support sustainable agricultural methods that protect the natural environment while making farming financially viable so that Farmers may continue to live and work in rural areas.
Active citizens who engage with their government and community
Healthy communities rely on educated and involved citizens. We support open dialogue among citizens regarding civic issues, opportunities for the public to engage in decision-making processes affecting their lives, and collaborative problem solving which allows individuals to make contributions toward their own futures.
Building strong communities that are capable of withstanding adversity
Stronger communities are developed when residents work cooperatively, develop local leadership, and take collective responsibility for improving their quality of life. We support initiatives that help create stronger social bonds, provide greater economic opportunities, improve long term environmental sustainability and overall well being.
How it began
Food + Farms + Democracy was created based on the idea that food systems, agriculture, and democratic structures are intertwined elements necessary to a healthy society. The project evolved from a desire to explore deeper ties between how we produce food, how we govern ourselves and how we pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness in an evolving world. Through educational programs focused on teaching about sustainable agriculture, food systems and civic engagement, as well as through public outreach and education programs, Food + Farms + Democracy works to encourage meaningful conversation and real-world solutions to problems benefiting communities today and into the future.
Key issues we are focused on
Sustainable agricultural methods
Access to wholesome foods (food security and food sovereignty)
Creating strong local and regional food systems
Economic development of communities
Environmental protection
Encouraging citizen participation in decision making processes
Restoring constitutional principles
Educating the public about important issues
Where we go from here
The many challenges facing our country in this 21st century will demand innovative ideas, more robust communities, and a renewed commitment to core democratic principles. As a resource for education, collaboration and activism, Food + Farms + Democracy brings together people such as Farmers, educators, policymakers/advocates/researchers/students/citizens who share a dream of creating a more sustainable future for themselves and others. Together, we can build thriving food systems, create stronger communities and restore democratic principles that connect Us all.
Your voice matters
Regardless if you are a farmer, teacher/policy maker/researcher/student or simply concerned citizen who wants to get involved in this important issue — your voice counts. We would like you to look at the resources we have available to you now and join the conversation of how we can create a better food system and a better democracy. Because ultimately the future of our food systems and our democracy belong to all of Us.
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