ABSTRACT
Structural inequities in the food system are, by definition, entrenched. But even entrenched problems can be addressed effectively. This chapter starts off by sharing two stories of how food was used to leverage systemic change in times of great political and economic distress. It shares definitions for terms like equality and equity. It points out that solving systemic issues related to structural inequities requires (1) equitable prioritization of problems and (2) a systems-based strategy for solving those problems. Donella Meadows’ Twelve Key Leverage Points for Systems Change are introduced, and each one is explained from the perspective of a Food Policy Council (FPC) working to reduce inequity in a local food system. Straightforward processes to choose priorities equitably and select systems-based strategies to address them are then shared.
