After reading Patrice's blog post (below) on U.S. agricultural systems and making healthy, socially conscious decisions about food, I thought I'd add to the discussion with this post.
Several weeks ago I was astonished and horrified to learn that there are 400,000 - 500,000 child farm laborers, age 5 - 16, working in U.S. fields, picking the very food we eat. Nearly 2/3 of these children drop out of school permanently. These children lack federal labor protections that all other children in the U.S. enjoy and often fear that they, or their families will be deported.
I was previously aware and very concerned about the terrible working and living conditions migrant farm workers in the U.S. endure, but had no idea that children, too, were often working alongside their parents. This is a major wake up call that child labor (along with sweatshop labor, sex slavery, and more), happens at home, not just in "third-world" countries.
Shine Global has investigated this issue and produced a film called "The Harvest". The film features stories from actual child farm workers. I haven't been able to see it yet, but have been told by another FMF colleague that it is very powerful and gives you a real awakening. I encourage you to check out the site and look for screenings near you.
So, indeed, there are many, many reasons to buy local, know where your food comes from and appreciate each and every bite!
