In 1996, La Via Campesina first used the term ‘Food sovereignty’ to refer to set of principles that set out the “right of peoples to define their own food, agriculture, livestock and fisheries systems," in contrast to having food production and supply largely subject to exterior market forces. Food sovereignty takes a holistic view of a community’s access to food.

Since 1996 the idea of food sovereignty has expanded exponentially, with organizations across the globe believing it to be the most effective approach to the international food crisis. Puente a la Salud Comunitaria is one of those organizations; we believe that access to safe, nutritious and culturally appropriate food is a basic human right.

By working in the communities to promote amaranth consumption and production, we are offering Oaxacan families more opportunities to determine their own futures. Puente a la Salud Comunitaria does not directly advocate for international policy, instead Puente’s focus is on the day-to-day empowerment of families and their children in rural communities. We also work with local farmers and promoters to facilitate access to the supply chain, allowing for a sustainable and fair market for amaranth.

See our projects for more information.