USDA National Organic Program (Agricultural Marketing Service)’s Post

📢 Spotlight on History and Justice: A Must-Read Article We are deeply moved by the latest piece from Mother Jones, titled "40 Acres and a Lie" https://lnkd.in/eN5jjzrf). This article takes a powerful look at the promises of Reconstruction and the continuing struggle for justice and equity in the Black community. At WANDA: Women Advancing Nutrition Dietetics and Agriculture, we are reminded of the importance of addressing historical injustices while forging a path towards a more equitable future. Our work in agriculture, nutrition, and education is part of this larger movement to ensure that Black communities have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve. As we reflect on this article, we are inspired to continue our mission with even greater resolve. We invite you to read and share this important piece and join us in our efforts to uplift and support our community. Together, we can build a future where the promises of the past are realized, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. 💪🏿🌱 #BlackHistory #Justice #Agriculture #Nutrition #Equity #WANDA

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage, don't forget it is also National Cholesterol Education Month. The age-adjusted prevalence of high total cholesterol (≥ 240 mg/dL) among adults aged 20 and over was high in Hispanic men (13.1%) surpassed only by non-Hispanic white women (14.8%). Newer data showed improvement in most racial/ethnic groups with a decrease to 9.3% in Hispanic men and only a slight increase in Hispanic women. High cholesterol is a major factor in the development of heart disease and stroke. 💡Monitoring LDL-cholesterol is a crucial part of heart disease prevention. Be proactive about your cardiovascular health, and consult with healthcare professionals to understand how individual and group-specific factors might affect your risk. Get your cholesterol checked for free, https://lnkd.in/d_Vfm99X Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! @followers

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s crucial to shine a light on an often overlooked yet significant challenge faced by Latin and Hispanic individuals: health disparities, particularly those compounded by Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Language barriers can significantly impact healthcare experiences and outcomes. For many in the Latin and Hispanic communities, LEP can lead to misunderstandings of medical instructions, lower quality care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. These disparities highlight the importance of culturally competent care, which involves more than just translation services. It’s about creating an inclusive healthcare environment where patients feel understood, valued, and respected regardless of their language or background. Efforts to address these disparities must go beyond policy discussions. They require actionable steps, such as providing linguistically and culturally tailored health education, recruiting bilingual healthcare professionals, and fostering an inclusive culture within healthcare organizations. By actively involving patients and their families in the conversation, we can bridge the communication gap, empower individuals, and improve health outcomes. This Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s commit to not only celebrating the vibrant culture and contributions of Latin and Hispanic communities but also to advocating for equitable healthcare that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges they face. Together, we can work towards a future where language and cultural barriers no longer stand in the way of quality care. Start by analyzing outcomes by Ethnicity and Language Preferences. What are your data telling you? #HispanicHeritageMonth #HealthEquity #HealthDisparities #LimitedEnglishProficiency #CulturalCompetence #HealthcareQuality #PatientEngagement

The importation of enslaved people in America ended in 1808. And that’s when the population of enslaved people really exploded. Why? Because slavery was a heritable condition in this country. And with death rates lower than in other parts of the Americas, the population of enslaved people grew by reproductive increase, some of which was forced on Breeding Plantations. Virginia became the source for Black Americans born into chattel slavery. Though the institution had been on the wane at the end of the 18th century, Eli Whitney’s cotton gin made it possible for mills to use the cotton that thrived in the South and demand for enslaved people to work fields skyrocketed. In 1810, after the transatlantic slave trade was halted, the population of enslaved people was 1,191,364. 16.5 percent of the total population. By 1860, that number had more than tripled. The eighth census counted 3,953,760 enslaved people. This isn’t CRT. This is Black History. This is U.S. History. #ThisIsntCRT #StillNotCRT #crt #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackHistory #bhm #DEI #DEIB #diversity #equity #inclusion #belonging #saircollective

🗣️ Our Stories Matter—and They Shape America At Hispanic Executive, we believe in the power of storytelling to represent truth and honor the vital contributions of Latino communities across this nation. Recent disparaging remarks against Puerto Rico are a stark reminder of ongoing efforts to undermine the influence of Latinos. But let’s set the record straight: Puerto Rico is an island of resilience, rich culture, and deep family and community values. The voices, talents, and dreams of Puerto Ricans—and all Latino communities—have woven themselves into the fabric of America. We are innovators, leaders, and creators, committed to progress and unity. By sharing our stories, we uplift a legacy of strength, heritage, and hope for future generations. Be informed before you vote! Our Latino Vote 2024 series offers insight into the critical role of Latino voters in shaping the nation: https://hubs.la/Q02Wc-C90 In Community, The Hispanic Executive Team #LatinoVoices #OurStoriesMatter #Resilience #LatinoVote2024 #HispanicExecutive

Juneteenth National Independence Day was signed into law as a national holiday on June 17, 2021. The holiday celebrates the date of June 19, 1865, when slaves in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom, which had been granted by the Jan. 1, 1863, Emancipation Proclamation but which was not enforceable until the end of the Civil War. The holiday is often celebrated with parades, family reunions, speeches, and eating specific red foods. Learn more about Juneteenth: https://lnkd.in/gX9B6Hww At WRMA, our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility is at the heart of what we do. Learn more about our values here: https://lnkd.in/gkx27jAw #Juneteenth #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Accessibility

Attending the Healthy Democracy Forum was an inspiring experience, filled with discussions about fostering inclusivity, engagement, and meaningful representation in politics. Senator Bernadette Clement shared her courageous experiences, emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity. Reflecting on an incident where she faced misogyny and racism, she delivered a powerful message: "I don’t want a thicker skin—I’m fine with the skin I’m in with all its frailties, sensitivities, and vulnerabilities.” Her hope-filled words resonated deeply: "Whenever it feels dark and stormy, spend time with smart, engaged young people. That's what gives joy and hope." It echoed the forum's mission—empowering future leaders and fostering a healthier democracy. The forum highlighted powerful initiatives like the Jean Collective, Elect Her and Campaign School and Operation Black Vote Canada, working tirelessly to ensure inclusive representation in local politics. Rawlson King, the first Black city councilor in Ottawa’s 150-year history, shared how representation drives policy, recounting his efforts to establish an anti-racism office in the city. The key takeaway: To build a truly inclusive democracy, we must engage youth, support diverse candidates, and address political polarization. Senator Clement's optimism and the energy of young leaders give us the hope needed to persevere. #Leadership #CivicEngagement #HealthyDemocracy #RepresentationMatters #YouthInPolitics #Inclusion #Perseverance

September 15-October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of Hispanic Americans that have influenced our Nation’s history, culture, and achievements. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), Blackberg would also like to recognize those Hispanic and Latino Americans who have served our country. Check out this article for more about how VA is celebrating these #Veterans: https://bit.ly/3zCU0YR

Economic justice is not just a slogan—it's a necessity. Rhode Islanders, it's time to confront the stark reality facing Black families in our state. Recent statistics reveal an alarming truth: the racial wealth gap persists, with Black families facing staggering disparities. While the net worth of white families stands at $285,000, Black families lag far behind at only $44,900. This entrenched inequality demands immediate action and investment to address it. It's time to bridge the gap and create equitable opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. That's where RIBBA steps in. We are poised and ready to lead the charge, delivering tangible results and a meaningful return on investment. We operate with a sense of urgency because we understand the stakes. Our families depend on us to roll up our sleeves and work tirelessly to dismantle systemic barriers and pave the way for prosperity. Join us in our mission to close the wealth gap, empower our communities, and build a future where every Rhode Islander has the opportunity to thrive. https://lnkd.in/gWdYJs2y We can create a more just and equitable society for future generations. #changemakers #equitydiversityinclusion #jobs #smallbiz #EconomicJustice #RacialEquity #CommunityEmpowerment Rhode Island Black Business Association | RIBBA

According to the "Changing Face of Florida" report, a four-part series by our Trustee Sachs Media, the Hispanic community is set to play a pivotal role in shaping #Florida's future. By 2025, Hispanics are projected to make up 1 of every 3 Floridians. This underscores the profound impact and growing influence of our community on our state's culture, #economy, and society. 💡 Discover the full insights and trends by exploring the complete report: https://lnkd.in/eQebrpY9