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Ashley B. Gripper, PhD, MPH and Shannon Frattaroli, PhD, MPH

Black Agricultural Solutions to Food Apartheid is a series where we dive deep into the historical, ancestral, and spiritual connections that Black people have to land and agriculture. Throughout this course, we encourage participants to learn about their ancestral foodways, agrarian practices, and spiritual connections. These sessions share wisdom and highlight the importance of food sovereignty, rebuilding community, and land based living.

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Black Agricultural Solutions to Food Apartheid is a series where we dive deep into the historical, ancestral, and spiritual connections that Black people have to land and agriculture. Throughout this course, we encourage participants to learn about their ancestral foodways, agrarian practices, and spiritual connections. These sessions share wisdom and highlight the importance of food sovereignty, rebuilding community, and land based living.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual and ancestral relationships that many Black people have to a higher power, land, plants, and each other.

Participants will walk away from this series with an understanding of the many benefits of gardening and farming, including but not limited to social capital, collective agency, physical wellbeing, deepened spiritual connections, community resilience, economic autonomy, organizing, mobilizing, and improved mental and emotional health.

Participants will leave this session with the desire to learn more about their own familial relationships to food and land, as well as a greater understanding of Black agriculture.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Land is at the Center
A Brief History of Structural Racism Experienced by Black Farmers
Community Gardening in Philadelphia: Past and Present
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Threatened Gardens and Advocacy Efforts
We will discuss our visions for our communities and develop a greater understanding of how community gardens and urban farms can serve as a central place for rebuilding and world building to occur. We are joined in conversation by Soil Generation organizer, Sonia Galiber.
Stewarding from Spirit
The facilitator will discuss some of her practices to connect to Earth, hear from the plants, and techniques for growing in pots and small spaces.
Overcoming Barriers to Growing in a City

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores the history of land loss and discrimination experienced by Black farmers in the United States
Provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of gardening and farming for individuals and communities
Taught by Shannon Frattaroli, PhD, MPH, and Ashley B. Gripper, PhD, MPH, who are recognized for their work in Black agriculture and food sovereignty
Examines the spiritual and ancestral connections that Black people have to land and agriculture
Suitable for individuals interested in learning about Black agricultural practices, food sovereignty, and community building
May require some prior knowledge of gardening or farming concepts

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Black Agricultural Solutions to Food Apartheid: A Teach-Out with these activities:
Review key concepts and principles related to sustainable agriculture and food production
Strengthen your understanding of the fundamental principles of sustainable agriculture and food production.
Browse courses on Sustainable Agriculture
Show steps
  • Review course materials, textbooks, or online resources on sustainable agriculture and food production
  • Focus on key concepts such as soil health, crop diversity, pest management, and food security
  • Consider taking an online course or attending a workshop on these topics
  • Engage in discussions or online forums to further explore and clarify concepts
Review and practice key gardening techniques
Practice key gardening techniques to gain confidence and improve understanding of land stewardship.
Show steps
  • Review a variety of gardening techniques, such as raised bed preparation, planting methods, and composting
  • Practice these techniques through hands-on activities, such as starting seeds, transplanting seedlings, and creating a compost bin
Explore online tutorials on building a thriving garden
Supplement classroom learning with practical guidance by following online tutorials on gardening.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable websites or YouTube channels that offer gardening tutorials
  • Select tutorials that align with your specific gardening goals and skill level
  • Follow the instructions and implement the techniques demonstrated in the tutorials
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Connect with experienced gardeners or agricultural professionals
Seek guidance and support from experienced gardeners or agricultural professionals to enhance your gardening knowledge and skills.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors through local gardening organizations, community events, or online platforms
  • Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in learning from their experience
  • Establish a regular communication channel and schedule meetings or visits
  • Seek advice, ask questions, and participate in hands-on learning opportunities guided by your mentor
Develop a personal gardening plan and document your progress
Create a personalized gardening plan and record your experiences to deepen your understanding of the principles and practices.
Show steps
  • Determine your gardening goals, site conditions, and available resources
  • Research and select plants that are suitable for your climate and growing conditions
  • Create a detailed plan outlining your planting schedule, watering regimen, and other maintenance tasks
  • Maintain a journal or online log to track your progress, record observations, and reflect on your experiences
  • Share your plan and experiences with others, such as through a blog or community forum
Join a gardening study group or online forum
Connect with fellow learners and share knowledge and experiences through group discussions and online forums on gardening.
Show steps
  • Identify gardening study groups or online forums that align with your interests and learning goals
  • Join the group or forum and actively participate in discussions
  • Share your knowledge and experiences, ask questions, and learn from others
  • Collaborate on projects or organize gardening events within the group
Participate in community gardening or urban farming projects
Engage in hands-on gardening experiences by volunteering at community gardens or urban farms to gain practical knowledge.
Show steps
  • Identify local community gardens or urban farms that offer volunteer opportunities
  • Contact the organizers to inquire about available volunteer roles
  • Participate in various gardening activities, such as planting, weeding, harvesting, and community events
  • Observe and learn from experienced gardeners and share your own knowledge
Plan and implement a gardening project in your community or on a smaller scale
Apply your knowledge and skills to create a tangible gardening project that contributes to your community or personal growth.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific need or opportunity within your community or personal space that can be addressed through gardening
  • Develop a detailed plan outlining the project's goals, scope, timeline, and resources required
  • Secure necessary resources, such as land, materials, and funding
  • Implement the project, including site preparation, planting, maintenance, and evaluation
  • Share the results of your project with the community or online, and reflect on your experience and learning journey

Career center

Learners who complete Black Agricultural Solutions to Food Apartheid: A Teach-Out will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Food Justice Activist
Food justice activists work to create a more just and equitable food system. This course would provide you with a deep understanding of the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the importance of food sovereignty. You would learn about the role of community gardening, urban farming, and other food justice initiatives in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on issues related to food justice.
Community Organizer
Community organizers work to empower communities to make positive change. This course would provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective community organizer, with a focus on food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the importance of community gardening, and the role of food in building community resilience. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working with Black communities, as it would provide you with a deep understanding of the challenges they face.
Agroecologist
Agroecologists design sustainable farming systems that prioritize the health of the soil, plants, animals, and people. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of agroecology, as well as the social and economic challenges faced by Black farmers. You would learn about the history of structural racism in agriculture, the benefits of community gardening, and the importance of food sovereignty. This knowledge would be invaluable in your work as an agroecologist, as you strive to create more just and sustainable food systems.
Environmental Justice Advocate
Environmental justice advocates work to ensure that all people have equal access to a healthy environment. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of environmental justice, as well as the specific challenges faced by Black communities. You would learn about the history of environmental racism, the importance of food sovereignty, and the role of community gardening in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on issues related to food justice and environmental racism.
Farmer
Farmers grow and produce food for human consumption. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful farmer, with a focus on sustainable and equitable practices. You would learn about the history of Black farmers in the United States, the challenges they face, and the importance of food sovereignty. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in starting your own farm or working on a farm.
Gardener
Gardeners cultivate plants for food, medicine, or other purposes. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful gardener, with a focus on sustainable and equitable practices. You would learn about the history of Black gardeners in the United States, the challenges they face, and the importance of food sovereignty. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in starting your own garden or working in a community garden.
Researcher
Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful researcher, with a focus on food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in conducting research on issues related to food justice.
Social Worker
Social workers help people cope with personal and social problems. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful social worker, with a focus on the needs of Black communities. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on issues related to food justice and social welfare.
Nutritionist
Nutritionists provide nutrition counseling and education to individuals and groups. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful nutritionist, with a focus on the needs of Black communities. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in promoting health. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on issues related to food justice and nutrition.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts research and analyze public policies. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful policy analyst, with a focus on food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on policies related to food justice.
Teacher
Teachers educate students at all levels. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful teacher, with a focus on food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in teaching about food justice or working with students from Black communities.
Health Educator
Health educators work to improve the health of their communities. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective health educator, with a focus on nutrition and food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in promoting health. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on issues related to food justice and nutrition.
Writer
Writers create content for a variety of purposes. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful writer, with a focus on food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in writing about food justice or working with organizations that are working to create a more just and equitable food system.
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design and create outdoor spaces. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful landscape architect, with a focus on sustainable and equitable practices. You would learn about the history of Black landscape architects in the United States, the challenges they face, and the importance of food sovereignty. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in designing community gardens, urban farms, or other food-producing landscapes.
Urban Planner
Urban planners design and implement plans for the development of cities and towns. This course would provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be a successful urban planner, with a focus on food justice. You would learn about the history of food apartheid, the challenges faced by Black communities, and the role of food in building healthy communities. This course would be particularly relevant if you are interested in working on plans for community gardens, urban farms, or other food-producing spaces.

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Black Agricultural Solutions to Food Apartheid: A Teach-Out.
Collection of essays that explore the intersection of race, food, and social justice. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the personal experiences of people who have been affected by food apartheid.
Provides practical guidance on how to start and maintain a farm, with a focus on the experiences of Black farmers. It would be a valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about sustainable agriculture and food justice.
Explores the relationship between Indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge, and the role of plants in our lives. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the spiritual and ecological dimensions of food production.
Passionate argument for eating real food. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the importance of healthy eating.
Dire warning about the future of food production. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the challenges facing the global food system.
Fascinating exploration of the relationship between plants and humans. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the role of plants in our lives.
Passionate call to action for a more sustainable food system. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the environmental and health benefits of plant-based diets.
Powerful indictment of the meat industry. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the ethical and environmental problems associated with animal agriculture.
Stunning photographic essay that explores the diversity of food cultures around the world. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the different ways that people eat.
Explores the relationship between food and spirituality. It would be a valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the role of food in personal and community well-being.

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