• Biography reflections

  • • What is surprising to you or stands out about their story?

    • What forms of resistance and resilience are evident in the biographies of these enslaved individuals?

    • How did enslaved Africans in Hampshire County resist their conditions and assert their humanity?

    • In what ways can understanding this history help address current racial inequities in local food systems?

    • How do the stories of these enslaved individuals impact your understanding of race and food justice in your own community?

    • What connections can you draw between the historical injustices faced by enslaved Africans and the modern challenges in our food systems?

    • What similarities and differences do you notice between the experiences of enslaved Africans in Hampshire County and those in other parts of the country?

• For BIPOC participants

  • • How has your race influenced your access to food and your experiences within food systems?

    • Can you share any specific instances where you faced racial barriers or discrimination related to food?

    • How have you or your community built resilience in the face of racial inequities in food systems?

    • What cultural practices or traditions related to food have been important in maintaining your community’s identity and strength?

    • What support do you need from allies and the broader community to address food justice issues?

    • How can food justice movements better center and uplift the voices and experiences of people of color?

    • What is your vision for a racially equitable food system in Hampshire County?

    • What steps do you think are necessary to achieve this vision, and how can community members of all races contribute?

• For white participants

  • • How has your race influenced your relationship with food and food systems throughout your life?

    • Can you recall specific instances where you observed or benefited from racial privilege in food-related contexts?

    • How do you perceive the historical and ongoing impacts of racial injustice in Hampshire County’s food systems?

    • What are some ways in which racial inequities manifest in our local food systems today?

    • What steps can you take to become more aware of and address racial disparities in food justice?

    • How can you use your privilege to support and amplify the voices of marginalized communities in food justice efforts?

    • What challenges do you face when discussing race and food justice with other white individuals?

    • How can you engage other members of your community in conversations and actions towards racial equity in food systems?

• Date: POSTPONED

• Overview:  Participants will explore the oppressive tools that are impacting our local food systems and the ways local organizations and workers have come together to address them.

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