067 Food is a Justice Issue with Miele Kennedy

Apr 1

Food is a justice issue with Miele Kennedy. Access to fresh, healthy food is a right, not a privilege. Dive into this deep conversation with Black Girls Eating and Community advocate and liaison Miele Kennedy.

In the latest episode of Black Girls Eating, we dive into a rich conversation that merges the zest of black girl magic with the critical topic of food accessibility and nutrition.

Our hosts, Candace and Tanorria, welcome a special guest, Miele Kennedy, an advocate making waves in the Indianapolis food scene. Miele's name, which means eternal and everlasting in Swahili, is a testament to her enduring impact on the community. As an administrator for the Division of Community Nutrition and Food Policy, she is at the forefront of bridging the gap between resources and residents grappling with food system inequities.

The episode unfolds with a candid discussion about the challenges of food deserts and that one in four Marion County residents faces food insecurity. The conversation then turns towards personal stories, with Miele sharing a heartfelt tale of her activism journey that began as early as four years old.

Listeners will be captivated by the discussion of the role of local food entrepreneurs in transforming the food landscape and the importance of supporting community-focused initiatives like the Indy Fresh Market. The dialogue delves into the complexities of food advocacy, the roots of food insecurity, and the systemic barriers perpetuating disparities in access to fresh, nutritious food.

This episode isn't just about food; it's a call to action. It challenges us to rethink our relationship with what we eat and how we support our communities. From the importance of cultural food traditions to the influence of capitalism and white supremacy on our food systems, no stone is left unturned.

Black Girls Eating doesn't shy away from heavy topics. Instead, it embraces them, offering insights and solutions that will inspire you to make a difference. Whether you're a foodie, an activist, or someone who cares about social justice, this episode is a must-listen.

So, what are you waiting for? Please tune in to Black Girls Eating for an episode that's as nourishing for the mind as it is for the soul.

Don't forget to check out their resources and recommendations, and if the conversation stirs you, consider joining the food advocacy movement in your community. Your plate and your voice have the power to enact change. Listen now, and let the flavors of justice and empowerment fill your ears.

About Milele:

Milele is the Director of the Division of Community Nutrition and Food Policy for the City of Indianapolis and Co-Chair of the Indianapolis Food Access Advisory Commission. A principal advisor to the Mayor’s Office and City-County Council on matters related to equitable food access and nutrition security in Indianapolis, she has 20+ years of experience creating equitable and sustainable practices that leverage community partnerships to support diverse and underserved communities effectively.

She is an effective policy and grant writer with 20+ years of experience in state and federal program management. She has extensive strategic plan development, program assessment, and accreditation experience and is skilled in creating high-performance teams and encouraging creativity and innovation.

Milele is a Food Policy Advisor for the US Conference of Mayors and the Mayor’s Alliance to End Childhood Hunger. She serves on the boards of the Indy Hunger Network and Purdue Extension-Marion County and is actively involved in several community organizations, including the Equitable Food Access Advisory, the JumpIN Leadership Council, and the Top 10 Coalition.