Food Justice: Our Path Forward in 2025

Letter from Chief Executive Officer Thomas Reynolds

As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy today, I’m reminded of his observation that “true peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.”

At Northwest Harvest, we see food justice as fundamental to this vision – because no one should face the fear and indignity of hunger in a society of abundance.

The challenges ahead are clear: global conflicts, climate crisis, and potential cuts to vital programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) threaten to impact Washingtonians who already struggle to put food on the table. When we consider that government assistance provides most of the food support that households experiencing hunger rely on, we must acknowledge a difficult truth: the emergency food system alone cannot fill the gaps if these critical programs face cuts.

But this reality only strengthens our resolve. Our mission to grow food justice through collective action has never been more crucial. We remain clear-eyed and steadfast in our commitment to cutting hunger in half by 2028, from 1-in-8 households to 1-in-16. This isn’t just about food distribution; it’s about transforming the systems that perpetuate hunger.

“Why should there be hunger and deprivation in any land, in any city, at any table…” Dr. King asked, “…when [we have] the resources and the scientific know-how to provide all…with the necessities of life? There is no deficit in human resources. The deficit is in human will.”

Washington has already proven its will through cooperation and collective action. Since 2013, our state has outpaced the nation in reducing food insecurity rates. This success comes from communities working together – schools, nonprofits, advocates, and supporters like you – recognizing that hunger stems from unjust systems, not individual choices.

As we begin 2025, we’re launching a year-long community conversation about the Meaning of Food, starting with a fundamental question: “What does food justice look like to you?” I invite you to share your perspective. Your voice matters in this critical dialogue.

Dr. King spoke of the “fierce urgency of now.” Today, that urgency calls us to act decisively for food justice, to center the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and other historically marginalized communities, and to build the systems that ensure everyone in Washington has access to nutritious food with dignity.

Thank you for joining us, and the hundreds of organizations and individuals working toward food justice, in this important work. Together, we can create lasting change.

In community,
Thomas Reynolds
Chief Executive Officer, Northwest Harvest

P.S. Share your vision of food justice here and join our growing movement for change.

Support our work financially or with the gift of your time.

PHOTO CREDIT

Image one: Martin Luther King Jr. talking to group during meal, Bob Fitch photography archive — Martin Luther King Jr. gallery, 1965-1966

Image two: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., center, speaks to reporters as he leads the 220 mile Memphis to Jackson march started by James Meredith, in a rural part of Mississippi, June 13, 1966. King and other civil rights leaders decided to continue the march after original leader, James Meredith, was shot and wounded shortly after starting out. (AP Photo)

Image three: Sit-in leaders (from left) Joseph McNeil and Franklin McCain with two others who joined them on the second day of protests at the Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro. Colorized photo by Gluekit. The Granger Collection