We cannot transform the food system without dismantling racism.

Along with millions across the country and around the world, we are outraged at the brutal murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the countless other unjust killings of Black Americans. We stand in solidarity with all those demanding justice and meaningful action to dismantle systemic racism in police use of force and throughout our institutions and systems. We unequivocally affirm: Black Lives Matter.

Our food and agriculture system carries the stain of land theft and exploitation, disenfranchisement, and racial oppression. Our goal of creating a fair, healthy, sustainable, and humane food system is only possible if we center racial justice and equity throughout the work. We know a healthy food system can be a powerful tool for change–especially if specific investments and reparations are made to support those who have been historically marginalized, displaced, and discriminated against.

The Center for Good Food Purchasing was founded on the principles of creating a more just, equitable, and sustainable food system. In this moment, we renew our commitment to anti-racism and support for historically marginalized workers, farmers, and business-owners of color as those who must benefit from, and inform decision-making about, institutional food procurement.

We are proud to be a partner with institutions, coalitions, and organizations across the country who are already deeply engaged in this work, responding to the current moment with courage and grace, and who continue to teach and inspire us. In the coming weeks and months, we will be deepening our critical self-reflection, while following the lead of our BIPOC leaders.

We embrace the difficult, transformational, collective work that lies ahead.

In solidarity,

The Center for Good Food Purchasing