EPISODE 2: NEW AMERICAN FARMERS
The second episode in this series focuses on how the farming landscape has changed in Maine in the past few decades due to the settlement of immigrants. I interviewed various New American farmers, individuals who were born outside of the U.S and later ended up in Maine as refugees and immigrants. The people I interviewed either run agricultural programs within their communities or just enjoy farming and growing food in Maine.
The episode begins at the Somali Bantu Community Association (SBCA) which runs Liberation Farms. I interviewed the director, Muhidin Libah, as well as the Farm Market Manager, Catherine Padgett. The episode explores the history of Somali Bantu people and their journey to Maine, the challenges they’ve faced upon immigrating, as well as the positive impact Somali Bantu people have had in their own community and beyond.
Finally, I spoke to two Sudanese men who arrived in Portland in the 90s. One of them, John Yanga, works at Fresh Starts Farm as a part of Cultivating Community, and the other, Lado Ladoka, has a small plot of land where he grows food for himself and his friends. This interview explores their reasons for growing food including their desire to have culturally appropriate food in order to continue their cultural traditions in their new homes.
IMPORTANT TERMS & IDEAS
Here are some key terms and ideas touched on in this episode.
Please explore the links to learn more.
FOOD SECURITY
Having access at all times to enough food for an active and healthy life for all household members. - USDA
For more information check out:
Berkely Article: Restoring access to Native foods can reduce food insecurity
Health and Human Services Article: Food Insecurity Statistics
CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE FOOD
Also described as "culturally relevant," this term recognizes the connections humans have with food that goes beyond nutrition and health, and into the significance food has on our culture. Providing access to culturally appropriate foods empowers and strengthens communities.
FOOD SOVEREIGNTY
Food sovereignty began as a movement in 1996 by La Via Campesina. One definition is the people's rights to healthy and culturally appropriate food, produced through sustainable methods, and their right to define their own agriculture systems. Flipping the dominant needs and demands of markets, it puts the aspirations and needs of those who produce, distribute and consume food at the heart of food systems and policies.
To learn more check out:
RELATED RESOURCES & ONGOING PROJECTS
Please explore these resources for further information on New American-run food projects happening in Maine.
SOMALI BANTU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Episode 2 is featuring Muhidin Libah and Catherine Libah from SBCA. Based out of Lewiston, SBCA's mission is to "provide vital transitional services, advocacy, and food production that empowers members of the refugee community to uphold cultural identity and economic well-being to thrive in their new life here in Maine."
Check out their website for more information here
CULTIVATING COMMUNITY
John Yanga, featured on episode 2 works along with Cultivating Community and their Fresh Starts Farm. From their website, "All of Cultivating Community’s programs are rooted in the idea that everyone has the right to good food. We empower New Americans by teaching them sustainable farming practices and connecting them to the community through our food hub." Check out their website for their programs and resources here
NEW ROOTS COOPERATIVE FARM
Although not featured in this episode, New Roots Farm is an other successful farm run by Somali Bantu farmers in Lewiston. Their mission statement is: "We are building economic security for New Americans by providing delicious vegetables for our community. By purchasing our food, you are getting healthy food for your family and helping grow security, jobs and ownership in the Somali Bantu community in Lewiston." Click here to learn more from their website.
