Detroit Food Security Policy

In 2008, the Detroit City Council adopted the City of Detroit Food Security Policy, aiming to establish a sustainable, localized food system that ensures all residents have access to affordable, safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food. The policy emphasizes community empowerment, economic justice, and environmental sustainability. To oversee and implement this policy, the Detroit Food Policy Council (DFPC) was established in 2009. The DFPC is tasked with monitoring the food system, advising on policy decisions, and engaging the community to promote food security and sovereignty. In 2017, the DFPC published “Creating a Food Secure Detroit: Policy Review & Update,” assessing progress since the policy’s inception and outlining future priorities. This review highlighted achievements such as increased urban agriculture initiatives and identified ongoing challenges like persistent food insecurity and economic disparities.

Black-led organizations have played a central role in shaping and advancing Detroit’s Food Security Policy. Notably, the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network (DBCFSN) was instrumental in advocating for the development of a just and sustainable food system in Detroit. Their leadership helped ensure that the policy centered racial equity, community ownership, and food sovereignty. As a result of the policy and the creation of the Detroit Food Policy Council (DFPC), Black-led groups have gained formal influence in food system decision-making, secured support for urban agriculture projects, and increased access to city-owned land for food production—benefits that directly address long-standing barriers to land and food access for Black Detroiters.

Analysis

Does the policy solution re-distribute power from mainstream institutions to impacted Black communities?

The Detroit Food Security Policy and the subsequent establishment of the DFPC aim to redistribute power by involving community members, particularly from Black communities disproportionately affected by food insecurity, in decision-making processes. The DFPC comprises 23 members, including stakeholders from various sectors of the food system, youth, and government representatives, ensuring diverse community representation.

Does this policy provide more decision-making power at the hands of Black communities?

Yes, the policy enhances decision-making power for Black communities by creating platforms for active participation in shaping Detroit’s food system. Through the DFPC’s subcommittees, such as the Education and Engagement Committee and the Research and Policy Committee, community members can influence policies related to urban agriculture, food access, and land use.

Does the policy undermine extractive economies like capitalism and restore community power around a local and regenerative economy/primary production?

The policy challenges extractive economic models by promoting local food production and urban agriculture, which support community self-reliance and sustainability. Initiatives like the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network and various farmers markets contribute to a regenerative economy by keeping resources within the community and fostering equitable food distribution.

Does the policy repair past harm and uphold civil and human rights, health, and environmental protections?

The policy acknowledges historical inequities in the food system and seeks to address them by ensuring all Detroit residents have access to healthy food. By focusing on food justice and sovereignty, the policy upholds civil and human rights. Furthermore, promoting urban agriculture and sustainable practices contributes to environmental protection and improves public health outcomes in marginalized communities.

Analysis developed by Natalie Rivas