This is Germaine’s story.

reating a documentary about food injustice in North Charleston, South Carolina is what brought us together, but the fight for justice across the country is what keeps us together. We have spent the last six years documenting the reality of a community negatively impacted by discrimination and injustices dating back to enslavement and compounded by the politics of racism and misogynoir that still exists today. The creation of the ROOTED film brought together a Black and white women in a journey of listening, trust, mutual respect, growth and empowerment to call attention to everyday injustices our society tolerates and to open the minds and hearts of those pushed to the margins, and the well-intentioned ‘shoves’ from those who benefit from and uplift systemic harm. The racial enlightenment after George Floyd’s lynching continue to reflect inequitable interracial relationships, both on the street and in philanthropic circles. True allies expose white America’s blind spots. Believing Black womxn, creators, activists, and stories is essential for justice and healing, and the ROOTED team is dedicated to amplifying these voices.  Years into the project, reflecting deeply on privilege and who should be telling which stories, we have pressed on together—with open hearts and humble curiosity—to nurture one of many Black American food sovereignty stories. Though the work is far from done, as Black activist and soul healer Micky Scott Bey Jones said, “We have the right to start somewhere and continue to grow.”