TheVegucator
Multicultural Resilience
By Dawn Hilton-Williams
Remembering Our Plant-Based Roots and Wisdom
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ulticultural communities have a rich history of whole food, plant-based (WFPB) eating that’s rooted in ancestral tradition. From the nutrient-rich crops of the African diaspora to the “Three Sisters” of Indigenous Native American agriculture, these practices offer inspiration for anyone seeking to improve wellness and embrace our history.
forced onto slave ships. These seeds were then planted in the new land, allowing retain a bridge home though the growing of African crops. 2 Oral traditions — Through stories, songs and instructions to children and other enslaved people, African women ensured the passing down their knowledge. 3 Foraging — Enslaved women often searched for wild plants
driven chronic diseases, here are five more reasons to adopt a WFPB lifestyle: 1 Prevention, arrest and reversal of our top chronic diseases 2 Saves an average of $750 annually per household member on groceries 3 Increases energy levels and significantly improves quality of life 4 Supports animal welfare and reduces harm 5 Conserves 200,000 gallons of water annually per person
Three transition tips Scan the QR code below to view the recipe for Shortcut Hoppin John Salad by chef Dawn HiltonWilliams.
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African Americans, in particular lead the nation in the adoption of veganism, with 8% identifying as vegan or vegetarian compared to just 3% of the overall U.S. population. Our growing embrace of veganism and WFPB living is primarily driven by a deep yearning to take charge of our health outcomes and a desire to align with a compassion-driven collective that’s already active in the battle for humane justice. Forcibly brought to the Americas in the most detestable conditions, enslaved Africans managed to carry with them knowledge of foods, cooking techniques, and agricultural practices, which they kept alive through: 1 Seeds — During the transatlantic slave trade many women cleverly braided a variety of seeds such as: watermelon, rice, sesame, okra, black-eyed peas and yams into their hair or hid what little, if any, clothing they had, before being
and herbs to supplement their inadequate food rations. They drew upon their knowledge of African plants to identify edible and medicinal plants in their new environment. Similarly, the Three Sisters, which are corn, beans and squash form the foundation of many Indigenous Native American agricultural and culinary traditions; providing balanced nutrition and profound cultural significance. Unfortunately, because of the merciless relocation of indigenous communities, many struggle to grow their heritage foods and have little to no access to fruits and vegetables.
Why now?
In addition to the fact that Black and Brown communities lead in death and disability from our top preventable, treatable, and in many cases, reversible diet and lifestyle-
Charlotte Multicultural Resource Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com
1 Explore 100% WFPB dishes and experiment with new recipes that are available online. 2 Shop for fresh, whole foods at local farmers markets or your favorite grocer; prioritizing the perimeter of the store where the produce and bulk bins reside. 3 If you’re 55 or over, Mecklenburg County provides a free mobile market program traveling to 12 designated site locations across Charlotte that share fresh produce and groceries. As you embark on your plantbased journey, remember that you’re part of a rich tapestry of multicultural wisdom and resilience. By embracing the nourishing traditions of our ancestors, you can reclaim your health while honoring legacy. Remember, local nonprofit organizations like Power Is Giving, Inc., are available to support you on your path with free, culturally resonant and BIPOC-focused yearround programs. P Fondly dubbed the Vegucator, Dawn Hilton-Williams is a whole food, plant-based (WFPB) certified nutrition professional, a clinically-endorsed, vegan chef and author and a wellness equity activist.