About this Event
Seats are limited! RSVP by Friday, February 20th.
Black farmers across Canada are not just paying attention to adapting to climate change as a major threat to their livelihoods, they are also trying to find solutions to perennial challenges that have left them on the periphery of the agricultural sector. These challenges include access to affordable land for farming, access to grants, and integration into policy making/shaping in the agricultural sector. Groundings is a space requested by and delivered to Black farmers to enable three major objectives:
- To curate a relationship of trust between Black farmers and the University of Guelph as an institution with expertise in community engaged innovation and agriculture;
- To create a networking opportunity for Black farmers to meet and have fellowship with each other, and to share how they are engaged in aspects of climate change adaptation and business success;
- To create a space of dialogue between Black farmers and key agricultural and mental health stakeholders.
Event Details:
- Date: February 26th, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Breakfast and lunch included)
- Location: Improv Lab, MacKinnon Building108, University of Guelph
Who Should Attend:
- Black-identifying Farmers: To ensure a safe and open environment for event participants, this symposium is primarily intended for Black-identifying farmers.
- Advocates: A limited number of seats will be reserved for advocates of Black representation and equity in Canadian agriculture. While advocates may register at any time, organizers will confirm these spots one week before the event to prioritize seating for Black-identifying farmers.
Key Symposium Highlights:
- Grants & Registration: Navigate the steps for official farmer status and discover funding opportunities like those offered through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
- Mental Health & Climate Data: Review vital findings from the Climate Change and Black Farmer Mental Health Project.
- Community Research: Engage with data and strategies developed by Black farmers, for Black farmers to foster long-term food sovereignty.
- Gourmet Farm-to-Table: Experience a meal prepared by Chef Layne, celebrating the fusion of traditional Caribbean flavors and local produce.
Hosted by:
Dr. Marsha Myrie & Dr. Andria Jones
Funding Provided by: The University of Guelph, The Ontario Agricultural College, The Ontario Veterinary College, Arrell Food Institute at the University of Guelph, and the Canadian Mental Health Association - Ontario Division’s Agricultural Wellness Ontario
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
ImprovLab, Winegard Walk, Guelph, Canada
CAD 0.00
