My biggest take away from this research was understanding how organizations can build communities through combining grassroots and top down forces that support one another. This became clear after I observed the relationship between SFA’s state-level and its local chapters. For instance, the state-level SFA has established a framework in which local chapters can organize themselves. Yet, these groups still function of within the framework of the state SFA and are working toward the same goal – to support and develop sustainable farming systems in Minnesota. Local SFA chapters then spread the state-level’s influence by representing their organization in various regions. SFA chapter members are also a resource for the state SFA as they provide the “community wisdom” that their organization uses to educate sustainable farming practices to members and the greater public.
In the current struggle for a better food system, SFA is doing its part by helping to develop sustainable practices that are feasible for both producers and consumers – therefore giving us concrete alternatives to industrial agriculture. And, though SFA
members do not advocate for changes to farm policy, it might be the case that future laws meant to support sustainable farming will be based, in part, on the kind of work that SFA is doing now. SFA has also taken steps with industrial farmers and agribusiness to show them a better way of food production and seeing results from this. While the need for fierce political activism still exists in order to transform agriculture in the country, SFA is
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building knowledge and making incremental changes to the current system so that this can happen in reality.
Moreover, SFA members themselves have benefitted from this process. They have built communities through their local chapters that have provided them not only with agricultural knowledge but with social support and organizational skills that have improved their lives as farmers.
My hope is that I can be involved in something like this myself someday. I was so inspired by SFA and what they have accomplished for themselves and the greater public. I want to be able to unite people just as effectively. Though this study pertained to
agriculture, I could see myself doing this in a number of arenas. Whether it be finding solutions to health disparities, environmental issues, gender inequalities, racism,
discrimination, or corruption, I want to stir within people a sense of power that emanates from their relationships with others.
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