What happens when we view people as citizens rather than consumers, and treat food as a human right? Food democracy.
"Food democracy" may sound lofty, but it's a very practical idea that's gaining momentum in communities across the country and around the world. Simply put, food democracy emphasizes fulfillment of the human right to safe, nutritious food that's been justly produced. It means ordinary people getting together to establish rules that encourage safeguarding the soil, water and ecosystems that, in the end, we all depend on.
It's also pragmatic politics built on the lesson that our food system is too important to leave to market forces, and that we all have a right — and responsibility — to participate in decisions that determine our access to safe, nutritious food.