Tune into WOL 1450 AM, 95.9 FM or the WOL Livestream on Thursday, April 9 at 10:30 a.m. EST for Everything Co-op, hosted by Vernon Oakes.
This week, Everything Co-op continues its observance of the International Year of the Woman Farmer with distinguished guest Karen Washington, a farmer, food justice activist and co-owner of Rise & Root Farm in Chester, New York. Vernon and Karen will discuss her journey as a farmer and food justice activists, the vital role women play in agriculture, and how initiatives like Black Urban Growers are empowering communities to build equitable and sustainable food systems.
Karen is a passionate food advocate who co-founded Black Urban Growers (BUGS) in 2010, an organization dedicated to supporting growers in both urban and rural communities. Her impact and leadership have earned her widespread recognition, including being named one of Ebony magazine’s 100 Most Influential African Americans in 2012, receiving the James Beard Leadership Award in 2014 and, most recently, the James Beard Humanitarian Award in 2023.
Karen also contributes her time and expertise as a board member of the New York Botanical Gardens, the Mary Mitchell Center, Soul Fire Farm and the Black Farmer Fund.
The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, recognizing the vital yet often under-appreciated contributions of women across global agri-food systems. From production and processing to distribution and trade, women farmers play a central role in advancing food security, nutrition and economic resilience. IYWF 2026 aims to elevate awareness and drive action to close gender gaps and improve livelihoods worldwide.
Don’t miss this timely and insightful conversation exploring the power of cooperation and building equitable and sustainable food systems.