From September 15 to October 15, RAFI invites you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with us. We proudly honor the deep agricultural traditions and connection to the land within Hispanic and Latinx communities. Our series of posts will highlight the essential role of Hispanic farmers in advancing sustainable practices, soil health, and food security.
Recognizing that the term “Hispanic” does not fully capture the diversity of the Latinx community, Institutionally, RAFI seeks to include all members of the Latin diaspora with the term “Latine.” This includes Afrolatinx, Indigenous, Brazilian groups, and others. Join us in embracing this rich, multifaceted heritage.
Agroecology
Have you ever heard of “agroecology”? Latin American agricultural and social movements have profoundly contributed to and structured our conception of agroecology, fundamentally challenging the industrialization and commodification of our food system. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we want to explore the relationships between food production and the culture, knowledge, and tradition of indigenous peasants’ movements in Latin America. Learn more about the structure of agroecology and its role in bringing environmental, economic, and social benefits to rural and urban communities.
- Agroecology Knowledge Hub (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations)
- Research about Hispanic movements in the USA (mano-Y-ola)
- X Congreso Latinomericano De Agroecologia (Soclaglobal)
- Milpas and Community Gardens Watsonville y Pajaro, California (Tierras Milperas)
- NFU Joins Allies in the Global Day of Action against the WTO and Free Trade Agreements (National Farmers Union)
- Día de Acción contra la OMC y los TLC: Declaración de organizaciones de Canadá y EE.UU (Viacampesina)
- Buen Vivir: an Andean Indigenous Challenge to Modern Development (KCL Latin American Society)
- La Milpa (Biodiversidad Mexicana)
- What is the Solidarity Economy? (New Economy Coalition)
Heritage
Latine agricultural traditions have left an indelible mark on U.S. farming. From small-scale family farms to large agribusinesses, Latine farmers have been essential in developing sustainable methods that ensure food security. Today, as we navigate climate challenges, the values of food sovereignty and community-centric farming, championed by many in the Hispanic community, guide us toward a more resilient future. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the farmers and agricultural workers who continue enriching our land and plates.
RAFI proudly recognizes those who have fought for a more just and ecological food system and stood up for their communities. While these names have led the way, we recognize that the heritage of the Latine community does not end with them and will continue into a more liberated future.
- Indigenous Seed Banks Helping Preserve Culture, Boost Nutrition and Protect the Environment (LatinAmericanScience.org)
- Supporting Latin America’s ‘Custodians of the Seeds’ (World Food Programme)
- Celebrating Hispanic Farmers’ Contributions to American Agriculture (USDA)
- An Interview with Agroecologist Jairo Restrepo (Resilience.org)
Special Message
In light of the recent weather disasters, our final Hispanic Heritage Month post will focus on how to support Latine communities in the Southeast. Standing in solidarity with the communities impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton, we have curated a list of Latine organizations that will use your donations to make a difference.
- Es Nuestro Futuro
- Tierra Fertil (Website | Donation)
- Florida Farmworkers
- Vecinos
- Carolina Migrant Network
- Centro Unido Latino Americano
- Also, please consider donating to Carolina Migrant Network’s Mutual Aid fund. All proceeds will be split among Latine-led/latine serving organizations in WNC.