The documentary, which examines the crisis facing America’s food sytem, will be screened on March 17.
“The future of our food system determines the future of mankind.”
That statement is explored dramatically in the documentary, Sustainable.
The Medford Friends (Quaker) meeting will be hosting a special showing of the documentary on March 17, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Medford Friends (Quaker) meeting, located at 14 Union Street in Medford. The public is invited to attend the free event, which includes a sustainable meal.
“Quakers, along with other faith groups, have long been committed to stewardship of the Earth and its resources,” Ruth Darlington, clerk of the Medford Meeting, said. “Most faith communities adhere to a deep concern for the environment among their basic spiritual values. In that effort, we are stronger together.”
The documentary examines the crisis facing America’s food system and the community leaders who are determined to fix it, according to Director Matt Wechsler of Hourglass Films. Illinois farmer, Marty Travis, after farming for seven generations, sees the disastrous effect big agribusiness had on the land over time. Travis brings his land back to life and becomes a founder of the sustainable food movement in Chicago.
The showing by Medford Quakers also features special guest speaker Adrian Hyde, executive director of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey, himself a pioneering organic farmer in Hopewell, NJ.
“The overriding issue,” Darlington said, “is that we must find a way to feed the world without harming the planet and we must protect the most vulnerable among us at the same time.”
In Burlington County, known for its extraordinary record in farmland preservation, local support has been a powerful force for change. Collaborations are already evolving. Last summer, Medford Quakers joined with the Pinelands Preservation Alliance in presenting a well-attended climate change film festival. In a broader regional sense, Quaker Earth Care Witness has worked to apply spirit-led responses to environmental problems.
The public is encouraged to attend the showing. Because a meal is also offered, reservations are requested.
Email responses can be sent to info@medfordfriendsmeeting.org, or RSVP at (609) 953 8914. Medford Quakers have worshipped on the 14 Union Street site since 1759. The present Meetinghouse was constructed in 1814.
