Connecticut Food System Transformation: Pathways To Equity & Resilience

Connecticut Food System Transformation - What Pathways Will Take us To Equity & Resilience? 

About:

Foundation House, in partnership with Foodshed Forum, is hosting an engaging discussion on food system transformation in Connecticut, exploring community-based initiatives as pathways toward a more just, resilient, and regenerative food system in the state. The morning will cover:

• Food system transformation: What does it mean, exactly? Why does the food system need to change? Within the ‘movement’ towards change, what are the conflicting definitions? How do we cultivate a shared vision?
• Claiming narratives: What role does narrative play in fostering a deeper understanding of systemic racial, economic, and ecological injustices within the food system? How does a ‘common ground’ unfold within the context of remarkable disparity?
• Farmland access and resilience: One-third of Connecticut’s residents identify as people of color, but statistically, more than 98% of Connecticut’s farmers are white. What are the barriers to accessing farmland and what role can we all play in cultivating equitable access? Climate change is already impacting Connecticut farmers. What does a sustainable future in farming and food production look like in Connecticut? How does regionalizing our food system foster resiliency? 
• Building-bridges between communities: How do we uplift each other in a way that advances trust and solidarity? What are the ways we, as a community, co-create a food system rooted in care – for ourselves, natural resources, and each other?

Panelists:

(click on name for bio)

Opening Remarks: 

• Ali Ghiorse: Co-founder, Foodshed Forum

Moderator:

• Richard Zimmerman: Executive Director, Foundation House 

Panel #1 Farmland Access + Resilience:

• Denise Savageau: Chair, Connecticut Council on Soil and Water Conservation
• Elisabeth Moore: Executive Director, CT Farmland Trust
• Jonathon Savage: Executive Director, Gather New Haven
• Diego Osso: Transition Director, Green Village Initiative

Panel #2 Food Security + Equity:

• Christine Caruso: Assistant Professor of the Practice Food Security & Environmental Justice, Wesleyan University
• Chef Raquel Rivera: Found and Owner, A Pinch of Salt
• Rob Moore: Vice President of Community Impact, Greenwich United Way
• Vetiveah: Food Entrepreneurship Program Manager, CitySeed

Agenda:

08:30 AM - 08:55 AM: Check in - Coffee and Light Breakfast

09:00 AM - 10:20 AM: Opening Remarks + Panel I: Farmland Access and Resilience

10:20 AM - 10:30 AM: Break

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM: Panel II: Food Security and Equity

11:35 AM - 11:45 AM: Closing Remarks 

Who is attending:

• Community organizers, farmers, food policy experts, farmland advocates, bridge builders, and food system changemakers.
• Impact investors, asset owners, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs.
• Interested citizens.

Registration:

This is an invitation-only event with a limited number of attendees.  RSVP today and secure your spot!

About Foundation House:

Foundation House is a Center for Impact on an iconic and beautiful estate in back-county Greenwich, CT, with a commitment to positive and systemic change in the areas of Environment, Community and Mental Health. Foundation House holds gatherings are a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights from leading experts, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and network with other like-minded people.

About Foodshed Forum:

Foodshed Forum, a program of The Foodshed Network in collaboration with Greenwich Conservation Commission, is a multi-platform educational and convening initiative. Our integrated forums amplify community-based organizations working towards food system transformation in Connecticut. We bridge initiatives throughout Fairfield County, and beyond, by strengthening the connections between food system community leaders and educating individuals on the ways they can be a food system changemakers and support an equitable, resilient and regional foodshed. To learn more  view HERE.

Disclaimer:

The discussions and information at Foundation House Forums and on all Foundation House communications is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice on investment, tax, philanthropic, legal, or any other matter. It is not intended to be relied upon for making any decisions, financial or otherwise. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals who are familiar with your specific situation for individualized guidance.