UMass students, advocates tackle food insecurity in Massachusetts

UMass Amherst hosted a Food as a Human Right event today and 22 News reporter Gabriella Villas-Boas joins us live in studio with what students took away from the discussion. Thank you, Ciara. UMass Amherst students had a discussion about food insecurity today with lawmakers and human rights advocates. They learned about different policies and how they can use their voices for what they believe in. UMass Amherst students were joined by human rights advocates and legislators at their Food as a Human Right event. The event connected students with policymakers for a discussion about food insecurity. They also heard from community members who have experienced poverty and hunger. A variety of students from different majors were present, including political science majors who are now beginning their journey in advocacy. My favorite part has been all the student participation. I've been working with a lot of student volunteers that are helping everyone get checked in, as well as student ambassadors, whether they're speaking or just listening into the day. Students learned about food insecurity in Massachusetts and nationwide. Speakers highlighted how different policies may have impacted different communities, encouraging students to do their own research to find what framework they feel best serves the people. It takes the people who have been fighting for 50, 70 years, and it takes the people who just started the fight and they're just learning what the fight is today. Organizers tell us they hope that this event pushes students to realize that they can use their voices to fight for what they believe in. It's so exciting for students to join in and to learn how to take action in the state of Massachusetts, to understand that their voice matters. Organizers tell us they hope to host many more events like this in the future. Working for you, I'm Gabrielle Villas-Boas, 22 News.