First Black Farmers Market in Rhode Island Launches

Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

The first Black farmers market in Rhode Island brings together community and culture.

News Summary

The first Black farmers market in Rhode Island will be held during Juneteenth weekend, organized by the African Alliance of RI. More than twenty Black-owned vendors will showcase their products, while three Black farmers from Nigeria, Congo, and Liberia will share their agricultural experiences. The event aims to promote community unity, support Black farmers, and offer educational resources on health and nutrition. The market, located at Farm Fresh RI, is free to attend with RSVP options available through the African Alliance RI’s website.

Providence, Rhode Island – The first Black farmers market in Rhode Island is set to take place on Juneteenth weekend, hosted by the nonprofit African Alliance of RI. Scheduled for Friday, June 20, from 4 to 8 p.m., the market will be held at Farm Fresh RI located at 10 Sims Ave., Unit 103, Providence.

This groundbreaking event is part of a four-event series titled the “Diaspora Reunion”, which aims to highlight Black agriculture and foster community connection. More than twenty Black-owned vendors will participate in the market, showcasing an array of products ranging from food to clothing, emphasizing the diverse talents and offerings within the local Black community.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet three Black farmers from Nigeria, Congo, and Liberia, who will be present to share their experiences and insights into their agricultural journeys. This feature is intended to promote dialogue while honoring the contributions and heritage of Black farmers.

Bami Farm, which has operated for over two decades under the African Alliance of Rhode Island, serves as a pivotal player in the local farming landscape. This six-acre community farm in Johnston provides a variety of produce for both the community and local markets, exemplifying the commitment to sustainable agriculture and food access.

The farmers market aims to unify the community, uplift Black farmers, support small businesses, and offer educational resources on health and nutrition. Kymara Mary-Owusu from the African Alliance of RI emphasized the intent to create a joyful and welcoming atmosphere for all participants and attendees.

The timing of the event, strategically planned to coincide with Juneteenth, aligns with its mission of fostering Black representation in agriculture. It serves as a celebration of freedom and community, empowering Black voices and initiatives within the agricultural sector.

Vendor participation includes notable names such as Ja Patty, Empanada Assassin, Caribbean Soul, and Haition.ish, which will be making its food truck debut at the event. This diverse lineup reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the Black community and offers visitors a unique culinary experience.

In addition to shopping and socializing, the market will feature entertainment provided by DJ Flip, a local music educator known for his engaging performances in schools. Guests can also participate in a panel discussion that will address important topics such as food as medicine and dietary tips for health improvement, fostering an environment of learning and community engagement.

The farmers market is free to attend, with RSVPs available through the African Alliance RI’s website, promoting accessibility for all. This initiative represents a significant step towards celebrating and supporting Black agricultural efforts in Rhode Island, enabling the community to come together in acknowledgment of shared heritage and ongoing work towards social equity.

For further details on the event or to RSVP, interested individuals can visit the African Alliance RI website at africanallianceri.org.