So, here I am again, sitting and thinking about food and culture and politics. I have had recent blog conversations with folks about food being political.
All I can say is that the more I learn, the more I realize that not only is food and food production political- BUT talking about food may be a great way to reach out to people who are not now active in politics.
many people have a feeling in their gut (pun intended) that something is wrong but they don't know what...
Because they do have this feeling though, they are open to talking about it.
I don't recommend some heavy handed daitribe about vegetarianism or soil composition (us hard core food poli people need to talk about that) but for an opening conversation, just try mentioning how you miss the taste of home grown tomatoes, or how you remember when the egg and milk guy did deliveries in your city or town. People respond. They too remember those things.
You can see how much people miss the connection and feel the wrongness if you go with someone for their first time to real farmers market. They respond to the colors and sites and sounds in a way that you never see in a big shiny super market.
People want to enjoy their food, and they want to feel good. So talk about it. Ask them if they know about sustainable practices, ask them if they ever think about growing a garden, ask them if they remember different food and tastes from when they were kids... start the discussion.
Then if they are interested recommend a few books- or a good market, or a nice website where they can learn more.
talk- share and talk some more, and remember it is everyone making small changes that will really make a difference.
Books to read?
Animal Vegetable Miracle
The best thing I ever tasted
The Omnivore's Dilemma
What to Eat
Food Politics
are all great places to start.
What do you think? what do you recommend?