International Human Rights Day

Today is International Human Rights Day which marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Noted in Article 25 of the declaration is “the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and his family, including food…”

This month is a time of celebration for many families across our state. However, too many Vermonters don’t have the means to put meals on the table to gather with friends, family, and neighbors. Food insecurity has been on the rise in our state for the last few years. Having limited or no access to nutritious food is not a standard of living and it is not a life choice. It is a violation of human rights.

Vermont’s state motto is Freedom & Unity. Nothing makes a person freer than being able to feed themselves and their families. The health and well-being of Vermonters are directly linked to the food they eat and have access too on a daily basis. Limited access to food and the low-food security statistics are keeping Vermonters from living our state motto to their fullest potential. We can do better.

Our organization’s belief statements best articulate our vision for a hunger free Vermont:

• We believe everyone has the right to food to sustain an active and healthy life and that the source of that food is consistent and reliable.
• We believe everyone has the right to choose a diet that is nutritious, varied, and culturally appropriate.
• We believe everyone has the right to food access through dignified means and traditional channels.
• We believe everyone has the right to sufficient knowledge regarding good nutrition and cooking skills, to sustain them throughout their lives.
• We believe in social sustainability: access to nutritious, affordable food is built in to the fabric of all communities.
• We believe children need quality food and nutrition education to reach their full potential.

Thank you for standing with us to live these beliefs everyday on behalf of the 1 in 7 Vermont households who struggle with food security in Vermont. Together we can ensure that every Vermonter has the right to be healthy and hunger free.