EVERYBODY EATS: AN ANALYSIS OF CITIZENSHIP, MINORITY FOOD INSECURITY, AND COMMUNITY GARDENS

Abstract

This study examines the sociological perspectives of community in order to accurately measure the scope of food insecurity in minority populations, and discuss the future of locally grown, organic produce as a potential answer to food insecurity. This thesis includes a sociological/historical examination of citizenship and community, a sufficient exploration of systemic inequalities apparent in the institutions of race and class, and a discussion of these variables’ effect on food policy with a critical race theory perspective, as well as an analysis of available census data on the racial breakdown of Bryan/College Station community in order to accurately study the patterns of inequality in food accessibility and affordability in the Bryan/College Station area. By studying the institutions of race and class, in relation to food accessibility and affordability, the goal of this thesis is to suggest preliminary political action that would alleviate the monetary stress imposed upon food insecure populations in Bryan/College Station.