SASA farmers' market
In association with Kawuli Youth Empowerment Network, and Ka Folike School of Percussion, The Self-Knowledge Academy is happy to announce its inaugural growing season coming spring 2018! Kawuli youth work with local businesses and community residents to make healthy and affordable food available for all!
Our farmers' market is both similar to as well as different from others of its kind. Like many traditional farmers' markets, ours features the produce and culinary delights of local African American food producers. We also serve as a culturally affirming space for the creative expression of some of our community's most talented artisans, craftspeople, musicians, and literati. Additionally, SASA Farmers' Market sponsors a year-round community supported agriculture program (CSAP), and appreciates the value of eating seasonally and buying locally.
On the other hand, prior to the national conversation sparked by an overconcentration of food deserts (i.e., in the black community) ascending to the domain of urban policy jargon, African and other First Nations people have long struggled to adequately and responsibly nourish themselves; particularly in the midst of systematic dehumanization, exploitation, and genocide. Set against this inglorious backdrop of nutritional deprivation--coupled with what Harriet A. Washington identified in her seminal work entitled Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times to the Present--discussions about the vital necessity for food security within the United States and throughout the Diaspora takes on increased significance for African people.
SASA Farmers' Market also hosts complimentary traditional West African drum and dance classes for interested community members. Research shows that regular physical activity increases flexibility, improves circulation, reduces stress, and promotes longevity. Taught by leading professionals in their respective fields, our drum and dance instructors are strongly committed to assisting with enhancing the health and well-being of participants.
Ultimately, our farmers' market is focused upon supporting the development of an independent agricultural model (IAM), providing access to healthy food options for ourselves, making culturally relevant physical activity readily available, and creating black employment for black people. In the final analysis, we are taking personal responsibility for ourselves by taking collective ownership of the constituent elements of life itself.