The COVID-19 pandemic has shown a widespread disparity of access to not only quality healthcare, but to quality food that negatively impacts outcomes for Black communities. The root of these issues run deep, and back centuries beginning with slavery and, later, a lack of opportunities based on racial discrimination. This meaningful discussion with change agents seeks to incite a greater vision of social and economic justice; improved nutrition and health; and community activism while addressing the disproportionate burden of social barriers to healthy foods. Panelists include:

• Mona Jenkins, Founder of Queen Mother's Market Cooperative
• amaha sellassie, Founder of Gem City Market
• Michaela Oldfield, Director of Greater Cincinnati Regional Food Policy Council

We will also explore the culinary history and culture of foodways within the Black experience with Andre L. Taylor, an oral historian at the College of William & Mary. A graduate of North Carolina A&T State University (BA in history) and NC State University (MA in public history), Andre has focused his research on foodways from the African diaspora and how recipes have been shared throughout families to preserve their cultural heritage. He also focuses on the origins of foods used in recipes from the African American community. A native of Philadelphia, Andre has conducted research in South Carolina examining how climate change and sea level rise impacts coastal communities of color who struggle to retain land and cultural heritage.