My Fellow Citizens,
Today, I stand before you to share a triumph that was once a distant dream—a world where hunger has been eradicated, where every person is nourished, and where the fight against food insecurity has been won.
This achievement did not happen overnight, nor was it the result of any one individual or organization. It took a collective effort, a dedicated team of supporters, and a shared vision of a world where no one goes to bed hungry.
It began with the Green Urban Lunchbox, an initiative that mobilized communities across the Salt Lake Valley. Volunteers picked fruit from trees that would have otherwise gone to waste, turning potential loss into nourishment for thousands. This simple yet powerful idea spread like wildfire, reminding us that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact.
We also saw the rise of the Permaculture Blitz, a movement that brought together people from all walks of life to create gardens in backyards, on rooftops, and in vacant lots. These gardens became not only a source of fresh produce but also a symbol of our collective resilience and determination. With every seed planted, we grew closer to a world where everyone has access to fresh, healthy food.
Walmart played a critical role as well, with its innovative approach to indoor food production. By transforming unused spaces into thriving agricultural centers, Walmart demonstrated how businesses can lead the way in tackling global challenges. Their commitment to feeding communities set a new standard for corporate responsibility.
But this victory was not achieved by organizations alone; it was achieved by people coming together. Across cities, towns, and rural areas, individuals and communities united in a common cause. We shared resources, knowledge, and hope, creating a powerful network of support that reached even the most remote corners of our nation.
We also focused on fertile land creation, restoring and revitalizing lands that had been depleted or neglected. Through sustainable practices and a commitment to stewardship, we turned barren fields into fertile grounds that now sustain life and provide for future generations.
Our Food Justice warriors led the charge, advocating for policies that ensured equitable access to food for all. They fought tirelessly to dismantle the barriers that had kept so many from accessing the nutrition they needed, and they won. Their victory is our victory, and it is a testament to the power of grassroots activism.
And now, we see the fruits of these efforts in communities across the nation. Families are fed, children are nourished, and hunger is no longer a threat that looms over our society. We have not only solved world hunger—we have created a world where food is seen not as a privilege, but as a basic human right.
This success is not just a milestone; it is a promise fulfilled. A promise that we will continue to care for one another, to innovate, and to work together for the common good. We have shown that when we unite behind a common goal, there is nothing we cannot achieve.
Thank you to everyone who played a part in this monumental effort. Thank you for believing that a world without hunger was possible and for working tirelessly to make it a reality.
Together, we have changed the course of history. Together, we have fed the world.
