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Building Sustainable Food Systems in the South

In February 2024, PhD student David Jefferson attended SOWTH 2025, an conference that brought together farmers, ranchers, researchers, advocates, and producers from across the Southeast. The event was packed with engaging workshops, interactive farm tours, and meaningful discussions on the future of agriculture and food systems in the Southeast region.

One of the highlights was a farm tour at High Hog Farm, where David learned about agroecological and regenerative farming practices, rotational livestock grazing, and the cultivation of food, fibers, and natural dyes from heritage breeds and heirloom seeds. High Hog Farm is a space deeply rooted in Black Agrarianism and ancestral arts, creating both economic opportunities and cultural reconnection through land-based traditions.

David attended several workshops including: 

  • Reparative Agriculture in Action: An in-depth discussion on the five pillars of Reparative Agriculture—Education, Legalization, Compensation, Land Reclamation, and Repatriation—and how they shape pathways toward Black food sovereignty.
  • Rice: A Journey from Africa to South Carolina: A deep dive into the historical and cultural significance of rice, the role of Black farmers in its past and future, and the impact of industrialized rice production on climate change.
  • Reparative Agriculture Through the Lens of Sankofa: A powerful discussion on using history as a guide for navigating modern-day farming challenges and opportunities for Black farmers.
  • Collaborating to Change Food Systems in South Georgia: An exploration of partnerships between statewide nonprofits and local communities working to transform food systems in the region.
  • Farm Bill 2: National Updates on the Latest Farm Bill Information: A critical conversation on federal farm policy, climate-friendly agriculture, and the ongoing work to ensure more just and equitable farm legislation.

The conference provided David with an opportunity to connect with farmers, organizers, and food justice advocates, who are leading efforts to build stronger, more sustainable food systems in the South. He is looking forward to the next convening in Jackson, Mississippi, in 2027.