Part 5: Food Security - Addressing Hunger and Sustainability in Black America | 2026 National Juneteenth Leadership Conference: Saving Black Families & Communities

Food Security - Addressing Hunger and Sustainability in Black America Speakers: Jamiah Hargins, Darciea Houston, Curtis Pitts   Summary This session explored innovative approaches to achieving food security and sustainability within Black communities, focusing on local initiatives and the importance of self-reliance. Jamiah Hargins shared his experiences with CropSwap LA, emphasizing the need for community-driven solutions to address food scarcity and dependency.   Key Topics - The concept of food security beyond mere availability, focusing on access, control, and ownership. - Jamiah Hargins' CropSwap LA initiative, transforming underutilized spaces into productive micro-farms. - The importance of rainwater capture and sustainable water management in urban agriculture. - The role of community engagement and education in fostering food sovereignty. - Challenges faced by organizations in maintaining momentum and impact without diluting their mission. - The impact of global events on local food prices and security. - Encouraging self-sufficiency and reducing dependency on external food systems. - The significance of involving children in food growing and sustainability practices.   Notable Quotes - "We might not really have food scarcity. What we have is food dependency." — Jamiah Hargins - "Prepare now for what's coming. We all see the signs." — Jamiah Hargins   Action Items / Takeaways - Explore opportunities to transform local underutilized spaces into productive gardens or micro-farms. - Consider implementing rainwater capture systems to enhance water sustainability for urban agriculture. - Engage with local communities and institutions to promote food sovereignty and self-reliance. - Involve children in gardening and sustainability projects to instill lifelong skills and awareness. - Stay informed about global events and their potential impact on local food security and prices.   About with Southern Soul Livestream - Live Episode Podcast   Witty, thought-provoking, and uplifting, Soul Thursdays is the program that you’ll invite friends over to watch every week, where you’ll learn about fascinating speakers and get to share in exciting experiences.   Support - Community Exploratory Journalism - Buy us A Coffee! Learn - Register Free Training - Getting Started in BIPOC Podcasting Workshop Shop - Southern Soul Official Merchandise - Buy Official Merchandise Purchase - Official Show Companion - Soul Thursdays Journal Register - Join a Live Episode Show - “It’s a Whole Vibe!”   Connect with SoulThursdays Website | Facebook Instagram | Twitter | TikTok