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The Poor Prole’s Almanac

Latest episodes

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Jun 27, 2022 • 36min

Beyond Land Acknowledgements with Redbud Resource Group

In this episode, we're joined by Taylor Pennewell from Redbud Resource Group to discuss the complex web of conversations around the concept of land acknowledgements, landback and sovereignty for indigenous people across North America. What does this look like in practice, what are the shortfalls around the way we do land acknowledgements today, and where do we go from here?   To learn more about Redbud Resource Group, visit: https://www.redbudresourcegroup.org/ or find Redbud Resource Group across social medias.     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac  
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Jun 20, 2022 • 41min

Community Resilience with Linda Black Elk & Ruth Plenty Sweetgrass-She Kills

In this episode, we're joined by Linda Black Elk & Ruth Plenty Sweetgrass-She Kills to discuss food sovereignty, seed rematriation, food systems collapse, and how social media plays into these conversations. What does the future hold for our food systems and how do we move forward from the current state of colonialism?   Linda Black Elk (Catawba) is an ethnobotanist specializing in traditional foods and medicines of the Great Plains. She is currently the Director of Food Sovereignty at United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck, ND, and is the mother to three Lakota sons. She can be found on Facebook at Linda Black Elk, or on Instagram @Linda.Black.Elk   Ruth Plenty Sweetgrass-She Kills (Hidatsa, Mandan, Dakota, and Nakota) is the Food Sovereignty Director at the Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College.     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac  
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Jun 13, 2022 • 48min

Reclaiming Indigenous Foodways with NATIFS

In this episode, we're joined with Mandu from NATIFS, North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems, to discuss food sovereignty and the future of indigenous foodways and the concept of culture and food as dynamic and evolving. North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NāTIFS), founded by James Beard award winners The Sioux Chef, is dedicated to addressing the economic and health crises affecting Native communities by re-establishing Native foodways. We imagine a new North American food system that generates wealth and improves health in Native communities through food-related enterprises. NāTIFS has opened the Indigenous Food Lab in the Midtown Global Market on historic Lake Street in Minneapolis. The Indigenous Food Lab is a professional Indigenous kitchen and training center covering all aspects of food service; research and development; Indigenous food identification, gathering, cultivation, and preparation; and all components of starting and running a successful culinary business based around Native traditions and Indigenous foods. Reclamation of ancestral education is a critical part of reversing the damage of colonialism and forced assimilation, and food is at the heart of this reclamation. NāTIFS will drive sustainable economic empowerment and prosperity into tribal areas through a reimagined North American food system that also addresses the health impacts of injustice.   Check out NATIFS at NATIFS.org or @Natives_org on Instagram     Support this podcast by becoming a Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/PoorProlesAlmanac  
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Jun 6, 2022 • 56min

A Discussion of the Farm Bill and Its Impact on Small and Regenerative Farms

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" features a discussion with Laura Thomas, Communications and Partnerships Manager at GC Resolve, and Graeme Christensen, a fifth-generation farmer and advocate for regenerative agriculture. The conversation centers on the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill, its historical bias towards commodity crops, and potential changes that could support the growth of small, diverse, and regenerative farming operations. The Farm Bill's Impact on Small Farmers The episode highlights the limitations of the Farm Bill in its current form, particularly its focus on commodity crops and its failure to adequately support small and diverse farming operations. Christensen points out that the crop insurance program, a significant component of the Farm Bill, is designed in a way that disadvantages small farmers and even penalizes those who adopt certain regenerative practices. This bias towards commodity crops, he argues, has contributed to a food system where even agriculturally rich states like Nebraska import the majority of their food. Opportunities for Reform in the 2023 Farm Bill The discussion emphasizes the 2023 Farm Bill as a crucial opportunity for reform, advocating for changes that could make farming more accessible to younger generations and support a transition towards more sustainable and regenerative practices. Key proposals discussed include: A Regenerative Transition Program (RTP): This program would provide financial and technical assistance to farmers transitioning to regenerative practices, helping them overcome the economic barriers and knowledge gaps often associated with such a shift. Strengthened Technical Assistance: The episode calls for improvements to the technical assistance provided by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), advocating for increased training in regenerative agriculture principles and the creation of culturally appropriate resources for diverse farming communities, including urban, tribal, and immigrant populations. A Government Land Bank: Christensen proposes the creation of a government-managed land bank where retiring farmers could receive a retirement stipend in exchange for transitioning their land into a holding area for aspiring young farmers. Participants in this program would receive training in regenerative agriculture and business management, ensuring the land is cared for sustainably and passed on to a new generation of farmers. The Need for Consumer Demand and Market Transparency The episode emphasizes the need for increased consumer demand for diverse, locally-produced, and regeneratively grown food. Thomas and Christensen argue that a shift in consumer preferences, coupled with greater transparency in the food system, could drive significant change. They suggest that technology could play a key role in connecting consumers with farmers, allowing them to make informed choices about where their food comes from and supporting those who align with their values. Christensen envisions a future where consumers can easily access information about a farm's practices, environmental impact, and social responsibility, empowering them to make purchasing decisions that support a more just and sustainable food system. Addressing "Regenerative Greenwashing" The episode acknowledges the growing trend of "greenwashing" within the regenerative agriculture movement, with large corporations potentially co-opting the term for marketing purposes without making genuine changes to their practices. To counter this, Christensen stresses the importance of establishing clear principles and definitions for regenerative agriculture, grounded in indigenous wisdom and a deep understanding of soil health. He believes that a unified front against greenwashing, rooted in a commitment to genuine ecological restoration, can prevent the movement from being diluted and ensure its long-term impact. A Call to Action for Listeners The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners, urging them to: Engage with the Farm Bill: Learn about the upcoming Farm Bill, participate in advocacy efforts, and contact elected officials to voice support for policies that promote small, diverse, and regenerative farming operations. Make Conscious Food Choices: Pay attention to where your food comes from, prioritize ethically produced and regeneratively grown products, and support local farmers whenever possible. Become an Advocate: Speak up about the importance of regenerative agriculture, share information with others, and participate in local and national conversations about food systems change. The episode emphasizes that individual actions, when combined with collective efforts to influence policy and shift market demand, can create a powerful force for positive change in the food system. Check out GC Resolve at: https://www.gcresolve.com/ For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  
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May 30, 2022 • 56min

Corn: From Ubiquitous Crop to Controversial Commodity

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac," celebrating its 100th episode, focuses on the history of corn in America, specifically its transformation from a food primarily consumed by poor people to a ubiquitous ingredient in modern diets. The hosts, Elliott and Andy, use humor and historical analysis to explore the complex factors that led to corn's dominance in the American food system, including technological advancements, government policies, and the crop's unique biological properties. Early History and the Rise of Corn Whiskey: Prior to the 1800s, corn was a staple food for poor communities and prisoners in the United States. With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, three key technologies—the iron plow, railroads, and canneries—revolutionized corn production and distribution. The iron plow allowed farmers to cultivate larger areas, while railroads enabled efficient transportation of corn across the country. Canneries provided a means to preserve and store corn, further increasing its value. This confluence of technologies led to a surge in corn production and a boom in the corn whiskey industry. Farmers, seeking to maximize profits and address the challenges of storing and transporting diverse corn varieties, turned to whiskey production. By the 1820s, the average American consumed five gallons of hard liquor annually, a testament to the popularity and profitability of corn whiskey. Standardization, Hybrid Strains, and the Haber Process: As the corn industry grew, issues arose regarding the lack of standardization in corn varieties. The diversity in size, color, and kernel characteristics made packaging, trading, and selling corn difficult. To address this, trade boards and rail hubs encouraged farmers to breed a standard crop. James Reid's "Yellow Dent Corn," which won the blue ribbon at the 1893 World's Fair, emerged as the dominant variety. This standardized corn, with its hard kernels, was shelf-stable, easily transportable, and ideal for processing. However, by the late 1800s, corn yields began to stagnate, prompting government intervention. Policymakers, concerned about food security, implemented initiatives such as irrigation projects, dam construction, and further investment in railroads. These efforts aimed to increase food production and ensure efficient transportation to urban centers. In the early 20th century, scientists developed hybrid corn strains that significantly boosted yields. These hybrids, coupled with the introduction of industrial fertilizers, led to an unprecedented increase in corn production. The Haber process, developed in 1909 by German chemist Fritz Haber, played a crucial role in this growth. The process enabled the synthesis of plant-available nitrates from the air, providing a readily available source of nitrogen fertilizer. However, the process was energy-intensive, consuming two percent of the global energy supply to produce nitrogen for farming. This dependence on fossil fuels for fertilizer production raised concerns about the environmental sustainability of corn production. Government Intervention, Subsidies, and the Dust Bowl: The rapid increase in corn production led to market saturation and plummeting prices, causing economic hardship for farmers. The Great Depression and the subsequent Dust Bowl further exacerbated the crisis. The government responded with subsidies, price supports, and land diversion programs to stabilize the agricultural sector. The Dust Bowl, a period of severe drought and dust storms in the 1930s, had a profound impact on agricultural policies. It instilled a fear of food shortages in policymakers, leading to a focus on maximizing corn production. Government programs encouraged farmers to increase yields and provided incentives for surplus production, even as the oversupply contributed to lower prices. World War II and the Rise of Corn-Based Products: World War II further intensified corn production. The government incentivized farmers to plant "war crops," primarily corn, wheat, and oats, to support the war effort. Additionally, the wartime production of ammonium nitrate for munitions led to a surplus of fertilizer, which further boosted corn yields. Following the war, the government continued to subsidize corn production and sought ways to utilize the massive surplus. This led to the development and proliferation of corn-based products, including high fructose corn syrup, animal feed, and ethanol. High fructose corn syrup, cheaper than sugarcane due to corn subsidies, became a ubiquitous ingredient in processed foods. Corn also became the primary feed for livestock, as its low cost and abundance made it an economically viable option. Ethanol production, while not the most efficient use of corn, emerged as another avenue to utilize the surplus. The Environmental and Social Impacts of Corn Dominance: The episode concludes by discussing the environmental and social consequences of corn's dominance in the American food system. The hosts acknowledge that corn has played a significant role in ensuring food security and has adapted to a wide range of climates. However, they also critique the reliance on industrial fertilizers, the environmental damage caused by monoculture farming, and the negative health impacts associated with the overconsumption of corn-based products. The hosts express concern that the current system of corn production is unsustainable and perpetuates a cycle of overproduction, low prices, and government intervention. They advocate for a more balanced approach to agriculture, one that prioritizes diversity, sustainability, and the well-being of both farmers and consumers. The episode offers a thought-provoking and humorous exploration of the complex history of corn in America. It sheds light on how a once humble crop became a powerful force shaping the nation's food system, economy, and environment. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/
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May 25, 2022 • 37min

A Deeper Dive into AGRA's Failures and Neocolonial Practices

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" continues the hosts’ critique of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), building upon points raised in the previous episode. Elliott and Andy further dissect AGRA's operations, exposing its shortcomings in data reporting, its detrimental impact on local food systems, and its questionable ties to corporate interests. AGRA's Opaque Reporting Practices: The hosts highlight the lack of transparency in AGRA's operations, pointing to the organization's delayed and limited data reporting despite receiving billions in funding. They note that AGRA only began reporting data five years prior to this episode, which aired in 2023, meaning that it took 10 years for the organization to release any information about its impact. This lack of accountability is particularly concerning given AGRA's size and influence. The hosts further criticize the quality and scope of the data that AGRA eventually released. They point out that the data is heavily skewed towards corn, with only passing mentions of rice, despite AGRA's stated mission to improve overall food crop productivity. This narrow focus, the hosts argue, reflects AGRA's flawed approach of prioritizing a few commercial crops at the expense of diverse, locally adapted crops that are essential for food security and nutrition. Adding to these concerns, the hosts reveal that AGRA's evaluation only included data from six out of its eleven focus countries, omitting any information about the remaining five countries where it operates. Furthermore, AGRA no longer makes its outcome monitoring reports publicly available on its website, only releasing them after a public records request forced them to do so. This deliberate obfuscation of information, the hosts argue, raises serious questions about AGRA's legitimacy and the true impact of its work. AGRA's Harmful Impact on African Food Systems: The hosts argue that AGRA's model, which promotes the adoption of expensive commercial seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, has actually harmed African food systems. They cite studies that show little to no benefit to farmer incomes or food security. Some farmers even reported a decline in their economic well-being as the costs of these inputs drove them into debt, while yields did not increase enough to offset these expenses. The hosts also highlight the negative nutritional consequences of AGRA's approach, noting reports of declining nutrition due to reduced crop diversity. Challenging AGRA's Narrative of Empowering Farmers: The hosts challenge AGRA's claim that it prioritizes poor women farmers and youth, pointing to evidence that the primary beneficiaries of AGRA's programs have been wealthier male farmers. This contradicts the organization's stated goals and reveals a disconnect between its rhetoric and its actual impact on the ground. Unmasking the Gates Foundation's Agenda: The hosts extend their critique to AGRA's primary funder, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, arguing that the foundation's agenda prioritizes the interests of Western corporations and institutions over the needs of African farmers. They cite research from Grain, a journal that published a breakdown of the Gates Foundation's agricultural development grants, revealing that a staggering 82% of the funding was channeled to groups based in North America and Europe, while less than 10% went to Africa-based groups. This skewed distribution of funds, the hosts argue, demonstrates that the Gates Foundation is more interested in promoting Western-developed technologies and solutions than supporting existing knowledge and practices within Africa. They highlight the foundation's significant funding for the CGIAR, a consortium of international research centers known for promoting the Green Revolution, which has been widely criticized for its negative impacts on smallholder farmers and the environment. The hosts suggest that the Gates Foundation's focus on technological fixes, exemplified by its support for biofortification initiatives, ignores the root causes of hunger and malnutrition, such as poverty, lack of access to land, and unfair trade policies. They argue that biofortification, while potentially useful in emergency situations, is not a sustainable solution for addressing nutritional deficiencies. Exposing Conflicts of Interest: The hosts raise concerns about the potential conflict of interest posed by the Gates Foundation's investments in Monsanto, a multinational agricultural corporation known for its production of genetically modified seeds and herbicides. They argue that this financial tie, coupled with the Gates Foundation's influence over agricultural policy in Africa, creates a system that benefits corporations at the expense of smallholder farmers. Highlighting the Need for Agroecology: Despite the bleak picture painted by AGRA's failures, the hosts offer a glimmer of hope by highlighting the growing movement towards agroecology in Africa. They point to studies that show smallholder farmers in Africa prefer their own locally adapted crop varieties over the commercial hybrids promoted by AGRA. These locally adapted varieties are often more resilient to drought, require less water and inputs, and are better suited for intercropping, a technique that enhances biodiversity and soil health. The hosts conclude by emphasizing that true food sovereignty in Africa requires moving away from the industrial model of agriculture promoted by AGRA and embracing agroecological practices that prioritize local knowledge, biodiversity, and farmer control over food systems. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/
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May 23, 2022 • 37min

Critiquing The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA): A Neocolonial Project?

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" presents a scathing critique of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), an organization founded in 2006 by the Rockefeller and Gates Foundations. Hosts Elliott and Andy challenge AGRA's stated goals of empowering African farmers and reducing food insecurity, arguing that it instead perpetuates a neocolonial model that benefits Western interests at the expense of African livelihoods. AGRA's Funding and Questionable Accountability: The hosts emphasize that AGRA's primary funding sources, the Gates Foundation and the U.S. government, raise concerns about its agenda. They point out that AGRA received approximately one billion dollars in funding, with the Gates Foundation alone contributing two-thirds of that amount. The hosts question the accountability of such an organization, especially given its complex structure and the involvement of major players in the "non-profit industrial complex". They draw parallels to past philanthropic endeavors by Bill Gates, suggesting a pattern of prioritizing Western solutions over local knowledge and needs. Challenging AGRA's Claims of Success: The hosts cite the work of researcher Tim Wise, who analyzed AGRA's documentation and found little evidence to support its claims of success. Wise concluded that despite AGRA's 15-year investment in promoting commercial seeds and fertilizers, there was "little evidence that...[it] has improved farmers yields income or food security". Wise's analysis revealed that yields in AGRA's focus countries had risen only 18% over 15 years, falling far short of the promised 100% increase. Additionally, AGRA's emphasis on monoculture crops like GM corn has led to a decline in crop diversity, threatening food security and resilience. AGRA's Model: Benefiting Western Corporations, Not African Farmers: The hosts argue that AGRA's model, focused on commercial seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, only benefits Western corporations while increasing African farmers' dependence on expensive inputs and long supply chains. This dependence undermines farmers' resilience and increases their risk of debt, particularly in the face of climate change. The African Union and the Influence of External Funding: The discussion expands to critique the African Union (AU), highlighting the influence of external donors on the organization's priorities. The hosts note that while African member states agreed to prioritize the AU's stability, they only contribute about 27% of the spent budget, leaving donors to fill the gap. This reliance on external funding, primarily from former colonizers and the European Union, has led to concerns about skewed accountability and a prioritization of donor interests over those of African member states. Safeguarding Food Sovereignty and Embracing Agroecology: The episode concludes with a call for a paradigm shift in agricultural development in Africa. The hosts highlight a public letter from the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), a confederation of 35 organizations, urging donors to cease funding for AGRA and instead support "African-led efforts to expand agro-ecology and other low-input farming systems". The letter criticizes AGRA's approach as harmful to farmers, the environment, and long-term sustainability. Conflict of Interest and Unanswered Concerns: The hosts raise concerns about the conflict of interest posed by AGRA's president leading the UN Food System Summit. They also point out that despite extensive criticism from faith leaders and civil society organizations, the Gates Foundation has failed to acknowledge or address concerns about its approach to agricultural development in Africa. Concluding Thoughts: The episode leaves listeners with a strong critique of AGRA and a call for a more just and sustainable approach to agriculture in Africa. The hosts argue that true food sovereignty requires prioritizing local knowledge, agroecological practices, and empowering African farmers to control their own food systems. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/
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May 16, 2022 • 51min

Anti-Foraging Laws: How the Rich Made Sure Only They Could Eat

This episode of "The Knack Attack" explores the historical origins and evolution of anti-foraging laws in the United States, revealing how these laws, often rooted in racism and classism, have systematically restricted access to wild foods for marginalized communities and working-class people. The hosts, Elliott and Andy, trace the shift from a period of relatively open access to foraging in colonial America to the gradual erosion of these rights, driven by the expansion of industrial agriculture and the interests of wealthy elites seeking to control and commodify natural resources. Early Foraging Rights and the Shift Toward Restriction The episode begins by highlighting the broad foraging rights enjoyed by American colonists, who could freely gather food not only on common lands but also on private property. This right was even enshrined in the constitutions of some states, reflecting the importance of foraging for subsistence. However, as industrial agriculture gained prominence, the need for and protection of foraging practices declined. Targeting Marginalized Communities: Native Americans and Freed Slaves The hosts emphasize how anti-foraging laws were weaponized against marginalized groups. Native American tribes were among the first to be stripped of their traditional foraging rights, driven from their lands as white settlers expanded westward. This dispossession was justified by portraying Native American hunter-gatherer practices as primitive and incompatible with "modern" agricultural practices. Following the Civil War, newly emancipated African American slaves, who had relied on foraging for sustenance and income, faced similar attacks on their foraging practices. Southern states enacted trespass laws and other measures to restrict access to wild foods, undermining the self-sufficiency and economic independence of freed slaves. This pattern of dispossession, the hosts note, is a recurring theme in American history, with those in power consistently using legal and social mechanisms to exploit and control marginalized populations. "Conservation" as a Tool for Exclusion The episode examines how the conservation movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, while ostensibly aimed at protecting natural resources, often served as a cover for excluding working-class people and marginalized communities from access to land and its resources. The hosts cite the example of the Adirondack Park in New York, where wealthy elites, seeking to protect their interests in the region's timber and waterways, pushed for the creation of a protected area that restricted traditional foraging and hunting practices of local residents. This "conservation" effort was driven by a paternalistic view of rural residents as incapable of responsibly managing the natural world. The Labyrinthine Web of Anti-Foraging Laws The hosts detail the complex and often contradictory web of regulations governing foraging at the local, state, and federal levels. They point out how the vague and broadly worded ordinances, coupled with the discretionary power granted to park officials, create a system that is easily manipulated to target and penalize foragers, particularly those who are poor or from marginalized communities. The inconsistencies in regulations across jurisdictions, they argue, further highlight the arbitrary and often discriminatory nature of these laws. The Case of Steve Brill and the Hypocrisy of Enforcement The episode recounts the story of Steve Brill, a New York City forager who gained notoriety in the 1980s for leading foraging tours in Central Park and was subsequently arrested in a sting operation for picking dandelion greens. This incident, which garnered international attention, exposed the absurdity of criminalizing foraging for common, non-native plants. While the charges against Brill were eventually dropped, the hosts note that this case did little to change the city's restrictive stance on foraging, as evidenced by subsequent incidents where individuals were fined for picking berries and dandelion greens in city parks. The Contradictory Mandate of the National Park Service The hosts examine the contradictory mandate of the National Park Service (NPS), which is tasked with both promoting public enjoyment of national parks and preserving their resources for future generations. They highlight how the NPS regulations, while generally prohibiting foraging, grant superintendents wide latitude to set specific rules, resulting in a patchwork of inconsistent regulations across different parks. This discretionary power, they argue, further contributes to the potential for arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement. Foraging as a Class and Race Issue The episode concludes by emphasizing that access to wild foods remains largely a matter of privilege and power. They observe that the modern foraging movement, while gaining popularity in recent years, is predominantly white and middle-class. The history of anti-foraging laws, they argue, has created a system that disproportionately impacts people of color and low-income communities, denying them access to a valuable source of food and cultural connection to the land. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/
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May 9, 2022 • 59min

The Temperance Movement and the Road to Prohibition

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" revisits the history of American Prohibition, exploring its origins in the temperance movement and examining the social, political, and economic factors that led to the passage of the 18th Amendment. Hosts Elliott and Andy discuss the role of religious sentiment, social anxieties, and political maneuvering in the rise of the anti-alcohol movement, highlighting the influence of key figures like Carry Nation and Wayne Wheeler. Early Temperance Efforts and the Rise of the Anti-Saloon League The episode traces the roots of the temperance movement back to the early 1800s, noting the emergence of temperance societies advocating for moderation or abstinence from alcohol consumption. Concerns about the negative social consequences of alcohol, intertwined with religious convictions and health considerations, fueled the movement's growth, particularly among middle-class reformers, with women playing a prominent role. The hosts examine the evolution of the temperance movement from localized efforts to a national political force. The formation of the National Prohibition Party in 1869, despite its limited electoral success, demonstrated the growing political aspirations of the movement. The establishment of the Anti-Saloon League in 1893 marked a significant shift in strategy, focusing on leveraging political pressure to enact prohibition laws. Wayne Wheeler and the Politicization of Prohibition The episode focuses on Wayne Wheeler, a key figure in the Anti-Saloon League, describing him as a shrewd political strategist who effectively manipulated the political system to advance the prohibition agenda. Wheeler and his allies recognized the power of a small but dedicated voting bloc, strategically aligning themselves with candidates who supported their cause, regardless of party affiliation. This approach, similar to modern-day political tactics, involved exploiting wedge issues to sway elections in their favor, effectively creating the illusion of widespread support for prohibition, even in areas where it lacked popular backing. Exploiting Social Anxieties and Anti-Immigrant Sentiment The hosts discuss how the prohibition movement capitalized on the social anxieties of the time, particularly those stemming from rapid industrialization, urbanization, and immigration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rural whites, migrating to cities for work, often found themselves in close proximity to saloons frequented by immigrants and minorities, fueling resentment and fears about the changing social fabric. The Anti-Saloon League effectively tapped into these sentiments, portraying alcohol as a threat to the moral fiber of the nation, often using racist and xenophobic rhetoric to demonize immigrants and their drinking habits. The Role of World War I and the Passage of the 18th Amendment The episode examines how the outbreak of World War I provided a crucial opportunity for prohibition advocates to advance their agenda. By framing opposition to alcohol as a patriotic duty, linking it to anti-German sentiment and the need to protect American soldiers from the temptations of drink, they gained significant political momentum. With wartime prohibition in place, and a majority of states already having dry laws, the movement successfully pushed for a constitutional amendment to ban alcohol nationwide. The 18th Amendment, along with the Volstead Act, which outlined the enforcement mechanisms, became law in 1919, ushering in the era of national prohibition. The Legacy of Prohibition and its Relevance Today The episode concludes by reflecting on the unintended consequences of prohibition, including the rise of organized crime, the flourishing of a black market for alcohol, and the erosion of public respect for the law. The hosts draw parallels between the tactics employed by the prohibition movement and contemporary political strategies, highlighting the enduring relevance of understanding how small, passionate groups can manipulate the political system to achieve their goals. They emphasize the importance of critical thinking and civic engagement in navigating complex social and political issues, guarding against the dangers of moral absolutism and the overreach of government power. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/
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May 2, 2022 • 50min

A Deep Dive into Hydrogen Power: Possibilities and Challenges

This episode of "The Poor Proles Almanac" explores hydrogen power, examining its potential to address the world's energy crisis while acknowledging the complexities and challenges associated with its implementation. Hosts Andy, Elliott, and Matt engage in a lively discussion, covering the history, science, and potential applications of hydrogen technology while considering its economic, geopolitical, and environmental implications. Hydrogen Power: A Historical Overview and the Basics of Fuel Cells The episode begins by dispelling the notion of hydrogen power as a futuristic concept, highlighting its long history dating back to the 19th century. The hosts point to the development of the first working hydrogen fuel cell in 1842 and its use in powering tractors by 1959, culminating in its application in the Gemini 3 space mission in 1965. The hosts explain that a fuel cell facilitates a controlled chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity, producing water as a byproduct. This process, distinct from direct combustion, offers a cleaner and more efficient energy conversion method. The "Duck Problem" and the Need for Energy Storage The hosts introduce the "duck problem," a concept illustrating the mismatch between peak solar energy generation (mid-day) and peak energy consumption (evenings). This disparity underscores the need for efficient energy storage solutions to bridge the gap between supply and demand. They discuss the limitations of current approaches like home batteries, especially as electric vehicle adoption increases, putting further strain on the grid during peak hours. Hydrogen Cars vs. Battery-Powered Vehicles: A Comparative Analysis The episode delves into the potential of hydrogen-powered cars, referencing President George W. Bush's 2003 State of the Union address, which touted hydrogen cars as a key solution to reducing pollution. However, the hosts acknowledge the challenges associated with hydrogen cars, particularly the issue of energy density. While hydrogen boasts high energy density by weight, its low energy density by volume necessitates bulky and expensive high-pressure tanks cooled to extremely low temperatures. This logistical hurdle makes battery-powered vehicles a more practical option for personal transportation. Safety concerns related to hydrogen storage are also addressed, with the hosts emphasizing that compressed hydrogen, despite the high pressures involved, dissipates much quicker than gasoline in the event of a container rupture, making it arguably safer than traditional fuel tanks. The Role of Infrastructure and Efficiency Considerations The episode underscores the importance of a robust infrastructure for widespread hydrogen adoption, noting the need for a network of refueling stations equipped with specialized high-pressure storage and dispensing systems. This infrastructure development poses a significant cost barrier compared to setting up charging stations for electric vehicles. Efficiency losses associated with hydrogen production, storage, and conversion are also acknowledged, with the hosts emphasizing that the overall process results in a significant energy penalty. The Colorful World of Hydrogen Production: Green, Gray, and Blue The episode examines various methods of hydrogen production, categorized by their environmental impact: Green hydrogen: Produced through electrolysis using renewable energy sources, this method is considered the most sustainable but currently represents a tiny fraction of global production. Gray hydrogen: Derived from steam methane reforming of natural gas, this process is the most common but releases significant amounts of CO2. Blue hydrogen: Similar to gray hydrogen but incorporates carbon capture technology to reduce emissions, though at a higher production cost. The hosts highlight the economic and logistical factors driving the dominance of gray hydrogen, emphasizing the current reliance on fossil fuels and the use of hydrogen as an intermediate product in industries like fertilizer production and petroleum refining. The Potential of Green Hydrogen and Shifting Economic Landscapes The declining costs of renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar, are presented as a promising trend that could make green hydrogen more economically viable in the future. The episode also explores factors that could further increase the attractiveness of green hydrogen: Vulnerability to Disruptions: The decentralized nature of electrolytic hydrogen production makes it less susceptible to disruptions caused by natural disasters or geopolitical conflicts. Water Economy: Hydrogen fuel cells produce distilled water as a byproduct, offering potential benefits for water-stressed regions. Reduced Reliance on Rare Earth Metals: Advances in fuel cell technology are reducing the amount of platinum required, potentially mitigating the ethical and environmental concerns associated with rare earth metal mining. Hydrogen Power in Heavy Lift Applications: Ships, Trucks, and Beyond Recognizing the limitations of hydrogen in personal vehicles, the episode shifts focus to its potential in heavy lift applications like cargo ships, trucks, and buses. These sectors offer greater economies of scale, justifying the investment in expensive equipment and infrastructure. The Case for Hydrogen-Powered Cargo Ships The episode makes a compelling case for hydrogen-powered cargo ships, citing a 2020 study by the International Council on Clean Transportation, which found that 99% of trans-Pacific voyages could have been powered by hydrogen with minimal modifications to existing ships. The hosts highlight the environmental benefits of replacing heavy fuel oil (bunker fuel) with hydrogen, particularly in the context of the increasing use of Arctic shipping routes, which pose significant risks to the fragile polar ecosystem. Iceland and Hawaii: Models for Hydrogen-Based Energy Export The episode examines the experiences of Iceland and Hawaii, both of which have invested in hydrogen technology and renewable energy programs. While early attempts to implement hydrogen-powered transportation faced challenges, their strong renewable energy infrastructure positions them as potential exporters of green hydrogen. The strategic location of these islands along major shipping routes makes them ideal hubs for supplying hydrogen fuel to vessels traversing the increasingly navigable Arctic waters. Geopolitical Implications of Arctic Shipping and Hydrogen Production The episode delves into the geopolitical implications of a future dominated by Arctic shipping routes, highlighting the competition between nations for control and influence in the region. The melting Arctic ice opens up shorter shipping routes, reducing travel times and costs but also raising concerns about environmental damage and resource exploitation. The episode focuses on the potential for the United States to leverage its Alaskan territory, which boasts significant offshore wind potential and a strategic location for hydrogen production and distribution. The development of a hydrogen-based fuel economy in the Arctic could bolster American influence while promoting environmental protection. Hydrogen: A Unique and Abundant Resource The episode concludes by emphasizing the unique characteristics of hydrogen as an energy source, contrasting its abundance and potential for decreasing production costs with the finite nature and eventual depletion of fossil fuels. The hosts draw parallels between the historical progression of energy sources (wood, coal, oil) and communication technologies (telegraph, radio, internet), suggesting that hydrogen, like the internet, has the potential to democratize access to energy and reshape global systems. Challenges and Considerations for a Just and Sustainable Hydrogen Economy The episode acknowledges the need to address the social and environmental challenges associated with a hydrogen-based energy system: Ensuring Equitable Access: The potential for low-cost hydrogen production raises questions about how to guarantee access as a human right and prevent its monopolization by powerful entities. Protecting Local Ecologies and Communities: The harvesting of renewable energy for hydrogen production must be done in a way that minimizes environmental impacts and respects the rights of indigenous communities. The episode leaves listeners with a sense of optimism about the potential of hydrogen power while urging thoughtful consideration of the social, political, and environmental complexities surrounding its implementation. It encourages engagement in informed discussions about the design of institutional frameworks that ensure a just and sustainable hydrogen economy.   For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

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