Starting Date: 02-18-2011
Ending Date: 02-20-2011
Chicago, Illinois 60601
United StatesFood is culture, food is community. It is what unites us, sharing a meal together. However, the system that produces and distributes and controls food in this country is flawed. The Midwest is the epicenter of our commodity food system and as students learning in midwest institutions we have the responsibility and the power to educate ourselves and those around us about the issues in the modern U.S. food system. That’s where this summit comes in!
What to expect
This year we’re trying something new. Instead of gathering students and putting them in classrooms to learn about the issues facing us today, we’re going out on the town and learning about the issues first hand. We are seeking to find out what a modern, urban, and sustainable food system can look like in the third largest city in the U.S. – Chicago.
Hands-on Learning
To get the whole story, we will observe, participate, and engage with specific aspects of the system that are working to make a change. Here are some example focus areas:
Food Service Meet with food service employees and see how food gets onto students’ plates. Hear their stories and learn how you can help them create a better environment in institutional food service operations.
Nutrition Can we feed the world and what can we feed them? We hope to further the discussion on the health impacts of GMOs and on helping developing nations create their own just and sustainable food systems.
Urban Farming Our cities are only going to get bigger. How can we bring fresh, healthy, and local food to people who are miles away from the nearest farm? Bring the farm to the people. Learn how Chicago is becoming one of the biggest urban farm centers in the U.S. and see the difference urban farming makes in the lives of city-dwellers.
Community
The only way we can learn from each other is to share our experiences. Throughout the summit we will facilitate storytelling as a way to share ideas. As we learn in small groups, we will share with the large group in an attempt to create a Master Midwest Story. In addition, we’re working to bring in professionals, already involved in the food movement, to add to the story and to share experiences they have with working in the food system.
Activism & Education
After the summit, we want you to head back to your campuses and apply what you learn at the summit in order to create a better food system in your community.
Nuts & Bolts
Where: Chicago
When: February 18, 19, & 20, 2011 (Times to be announced)
More information on logistics coming SOON!
Registration and Payment Info
Coming SOON!
FOR MORE INFORMATION
VISIT http://midwestrfc.boardforum.ca/
EMAIL Ashley – abswank@iastate.eduGeographical Scope: Regional Conference |
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