In this session, we dive into our network’s focus on regional, aspirational policy to drive change and make progress toward our regional food system goals, Vision, and values. In particular, we will learn about a suite of first-in-the-nation food policies in the state of Maine that represent one robust state-level example of prioritizing values around rights-to-food, ending hunger, and lifting up food sovereignty. The first part of this event (10:00 am to noon) will feature Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry Commissioner (and co-author of the New England Food Vision) Amanda Beal and Maine Senator (and FSNE Ambassador) Craig Hickman.
The second half of this event (12:30 to 2:30 pm) will include a panel of guests from around the region to share examples of their food policy work. Participants will have a chance to discuss food policy efforts and connect with others for inspiration and motivation. This practitioners’ panel will include Ken Morse of the Maine Food Advocacy Alliance Project, Winton Pitcoff of the Massachusetts Food System Collaborative, Bill Labich sharing about the Regional Conservation Partnerships, and Ephraim Froelich who is doing policy work with the North American Marine Alliance (NAMA) and AKWA-DC.