Racial Discrimination and Food Disparities

There's enough on this planet for everyone's needs but not for everyone's greed. -Mahatma Gandhi

Veganism is often viewed as a form of privilege, and the lack of access to fresh produce in minority and impoverished neighborhoods is a symptom of a larger issue. This issue includes racial disparities within our food system and the negative health consequences that arise due to the lack of options and availability of healthy food choices. Health disparities across racial lines have been documented in various studies, and it's clear that the trend will not change without deliberate effort to improve the food system.

Food deserts are areas without access to fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as other unprocessed foods, due to a lack of grocery stores and farmers' markets. This can lead to increased consumption of processed food, which is often high in sodium and fat, as well as an increased risk of conditions such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes. While there are some efforts to improve access to fresh produce in minority and impoverished neighborhoods, such as community gardens and mobile markets, many of these initiatives lack the resources and support needed to have a long-term impact on health outcomes.

We must take into consideration the disparities that exist within the food system. It isn't enough to simply promote a vegan diet as a means of sustainable and ethical eating, but rather a deeper understanding of the disparities and efforts to alleviate them must be developed and implemented through policy, education and the investment of resources. We cannot continue to expect people to take on the burden of choosing a compassionate lifestyle while ignoring the disproportionate suffering and systematic neglectors of marginalized communities. It's up to us to create a food system that is accessible, equitable and healthful.

However we are not completely helpless when it comes to finding ways to provide nutritional food to all communities. Here are a few resources in Indianapolis for anyone in need of them.

Indy Hunger Network

Indiana Grown

Indy Food Policy

Meals On Wheels