Food is Justice: Danny Ellis

Welcome to the Meaning of Food, a yearlong exploration of food’s place in our lives and communities. Every meal tells a story – food connects us to our culture, our memories, our sense of identity. These stories shape who we are—and they can shape our understanding of hunger. This month, we are highlighting stories about food justice. Northwest Harvest driver, Danny Ellis, based in Spokane, shares what “Food is Justice” means to him. More stories from our community can be found here.

Building food justice means building a more equitable world for all. What does food justice look like to you?

“Food Justice” looks like to me is the “Right to Food.” One bill at a time and eventually making a “Right to Food” a law in WA state. Food Justice is Social Justice.

How have you been impacted by hunger and food insecurity?

Hunger and food insecurity struck me 1st as child in elementary, going to school without breakfast and waiting until lunch to have my 1^st meal.  Again, in 2012 as I became a full time single parent with custody of my 3 children. We went through some changes. We were on food stamps, which was not enough, therefore we would go to local food banks when I was not working to help with our day to day meals. It was not easy and is not easy to admit that I struggled to provide my children and I with 3 nutritious meals a day. I never wanted my children to endure hunger pains as I did as a child, but I cannot control everything, but we eventually were to improve our food security with dedication and hard work. We are very grateful for food banks and relate to struggles that we all can go through.

What is something you wish more people understood about hunger and food insecurity?

I wish more people would understand about hunger and food insecurity is that even some folks that are employed, still endure hunger and food insecurity. As some must make tough decisions to pay bills or have food security.

What is a positive memory you have that is related to food?

I have many positive memories related to food. As food has brought our family together, especially during the holidays. Food also breaks down language barriers and shows one another love.