Have you ever pondered why, statistically, a disproportionate number of people of color suffer from health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease? Reflecting on my experiences during the early 2000s in Detroit, a city predominantly African-American at the time, I noticed striking differences compared to my own neighborhood, especially concerning food availability.
In these urban neighborhoods, “corner stores,” or liquor stores, dotted nearly every block. Unlike fully stocked grocery stores, these shops often offered limited and less nutritious food options. Many residents, including my friends, frequently purchased meals consisting primarily of sodas, colored sugar waters, and small bags of chips—all due to a lack of better choices. Even fast food, regarded occasionally as a treat, paled in comparison to the rich family Sunday dinners that I cherished—though, as a vegetarian, my choices were limited to collard greens and pies until I discovered their traditional preparations!
In response to these limited options, the resilient citizens of Detroit began advocating for change, demanding better access to healthier food. Despite initial governmental inaction, community-driven initiatives blossomed. Today, fruits and vegetables grow in lots where empty lots once prevailed, and urban farming has taken root as a vital movement for sustainable food sources. Additionally, the opening of a Whole Foods Market downtown signals a slow but positive shift towards healthier choices facilitated by gentrification, although it brings its own set of challenges.
Organizations and films such as “They’re Trying To Kill Us” and “Roots of Change” have further inspired me and many others to reflect deeply on these critical issues, often overlooked by the majority. Dr. Milton Mills, a pioneer in plant-based education within the medical community, has also highlighted a significant health concern: the high rates of lactose intolerance (75 – 95%) among people of color, contradicting the widespread promotion of dairy for calcium and strong bones. This misinformation benefits dairy producers at the expense of community health, underscoring the urgent need for accurate and inclusive health education.
As a holistic nutrition counselor, vegan food advocate, and believer in the power of education, I leverage social media to inspire and educate others about the benefits of a plant-based diet. Simple actions, like sharing appetizing photos of healthy vegan meals, have sparked curiosity and conversation among my followers, some of whom have embraced a vegan lifestyle.
Supporting black-owned businesses that promote healthy eating and plant-based options is another effective way to foster community health and economic empowerment. Together, these efforts contribute to a broader movement toward better health outcomes and environmental sustainability.
Our younger generation, represented by figures like Genesis Butler who advocates for animal rights and climate action, is also leading the way. Through her involvement with Social Compassion in Legislation, she strives for significant advancements not just in our food systems but in our overall environmental policies.
It’s clear that by initiating bold conversations about nutrition education and making informed choices about what we put on our plates, we can make a substantial impact. Our beautiful planet and its diverse peoples deserve our best efforts toward creating a healthier, more equitable world. What steps are you willing to take? Let’s discuss and start making a change today.