Problem

U.S. agriculture is dependent on an underpaid and exploited workforce and is increasingly dominated by industrial-scale production skewed against the interests of workers and small-scale farmers alike. There is a growing counter-trend of consumer interest in food produced under socially just and environmentally sustainable conditions. As organic agriculture grows, it is increasingly characterized by injustices of conventional agriculture. The organic label does not address justice or fairness.

The Gift

This gift will enable one farm or other food business to be certified under Agricultural Justice Project standards. It brings fair, local, organic food to market and improves conditions for farmers and workers. The AJP's standards ensure fair working conditions and wages for people in every part of organic food production, from farmers and farm workers to retail employees. AJP provides marketplace rewards for family farmers and other food businesses committed to justice. This gift will enable an AJP team to lead a participatory audit of one farm or business. The audit includes interviews with farmers, farm workers, and others. It includes training for a local certifier, who identifies needed improvements so that AJP team members work with the farm or business to bring it into compliance with the AJP standards. Finally, the team will work with local retailers and advocates to get the products on shelves and raise their visibility and value. Learn more at www.agriculturaljusticeproject.org.