Tina Jenkins Bell

Feed Black Futures breathes life into Hamer’s words by training participants to start and nurture backyard, apartment, and community gardens — and to advocate for food sovereignty policies and practices that enable marginalized communities to gain access to fresh food production and equitable food distribution.

Numbers and notable accolades aside, Hagelberg says his biggest motivator in continuing his work is to change the status quo by shining a light on the uncomfortable, systemic truths that have shaped his community — and many like it.

Nyhart believes this network of trust strengthens Market Box’s work and their ties to the community. “Some recipients may ask for an extra bag for a neighbor who needs food, too. That makes it easier for us to reach folks who need the help,” she said.

Free Box participants believe it is better to put things no longer used in one household into the hands of others who need them, rather than allow them to go into landfills.

There is now an intentional movement to diversify and reframe bike share programs as a public transit service for everyone.

Economic racism is a real issue that denies people the opportunity to support themselves and their families, start businesses, or build financial legacies — such as homeownership — that pass from one generation to the next.