Food Justice in American Cities Stories of Health and Resilience

"This book is a breath of fresh air. It introduces a comparative study of socioeconomic and demographic data of six US cities and traces the alarming rates in obesity and diabetes among some of our urban residents. As is usually the case, those who are already disadvantaged bear the brunt of the negative health effects of limited food access.

However, the book does not stop by pointing to the problem. By examining some of the emerging innovations in the US food system, the book lays out in detail what the fertile ground would be for a sustainable and just food system, and what this future would look like: a food system that is more resourceful, regenerative, and efficient, and aligned with nature.

This study is a must-read for every concerned US citizen today."

Steffen Lehmann, Professor, Urban Futures Lab, The University of Nevada

O'Hara (agriculture, Univ. of the District of Columbia) explores food (in)security and systems across six cities in the United States. Through a blend of quantitative and qualitative research methods, she first presents statistical data and then problematizes simple conclusions about food access through qualitative outcomes....Ultimately, O'Hara calls for greater sustainability in a resilient food system that supports socially just practices for all. This book could be used in the disciplines of social justice studies, food studies, sociology, and urban planning. Summing Up: Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty; professionals --C. L. Lalonde, SUNY Brockport in CHOICE

Sabine O´Hara provides an inspiring rationale for why we need to rethink urban food systems. She vividly illustrates that food systems entail more than producing crops and eating foodstuffs. They are essentially shaped by relationships between people and nature. She also provides encouraging examples of urban food initiatives that emphasize cooperation and social relationships over short-term profit and create entry points for designing an urban food system that can provide nutritious food for all. By drawing attention to restorative practices, Sabine O´Hara highlights the importance of redefining efficiency and economic value creation through networks that can improve food security and enhance equity in American cities. This book is an excellent source for anyone in search of promising solutions for establishing a healthy and resilient food systems in cities around the world. -Dr. Diana Sietz, Thünen Institute of Biodiversity, Germany.