History
While we focus on praising the successful accomplishments, freedoms and success stories minorities have achieved in America from historic slavery , oppression, racism and unfair disadvantages we also promote health and wellness through this sport and target community members to embrace their differences and change their lives through healthy eating habits by using physical activities that bring them closer to their community and families. We welcome and encourage all cultures and backgrounds in our community to run and walk with us while embracing and celebrating ALL AMERICAN Freedoms on this day.
A bit of history and why this event is important for the community: June 19 1865 also known as Juneteenth gave many African American Slaves their freedom and was the beginning of a Journey to find land and establish a new life away from plantations for black families. Many of the black freed slaves went on to start farms that later would be taken by force or by using unfair practices by the prior slave owners. Due to the unfortunate circumstances they had to endure minorities have been displaced from healthy eating habits and fresh foods, Have faced increased mental health crisis and ongoing health issues from years of oppression and limited resources. Black Americans have had the highest rates of obesity and heart disease in our nation. UCC believes in connecting African Americans and minorities back to agriculture as a way to inspire independence, freedom and create thriving lifestyles. We feel agriculture is the answer to many issues BIPOC (emphasis on Black American) community members are facing today. We strive to teach, mentor and assist these disadvantaged individuals in entrepreneurship, and agriculture.
The Freedom Run & Walk: will introduce minority participants young and old to the thriving local farms in the community that are an alternative from the unhealthy eating habits that have been used for centuries for survival amongst the black communities. Through this endeavor we hope to expose our local farmers to families who need them the most and make an positive impact on minority emotional , mental and physical health while the entire community joins to support this efforts. We hope this event encourages multiple backgrounds and cultures to make their health a priority while also reflecting on the Freedoms gained in agriculture that truly bring us together as a equitable community.
Help us promote community unity and increase diverse and inclusive civic participation. This event is an opportunity for you to be apart of community diversity equity and inclusion education and growth .
