In the fourth and final* episode of Peace of Earth, Akil brings this leg of his research journey to a close by comparing and contrasting the two case studies explored in previous episodes: the Community Ecology Institute (CEI) in Columbia, Maryland, and Soil for Life (SFL) in Cape Town, South Africa. You’ll hear key similarities between the organizations, focusing on their roles as "third places" and the influence of their visionary founders. You’ll also learn key differences in the socio-economic contexts of the two cities and the unique approaches each organization takes in addressing food insecurity and community resilience. Finally, you’ll get insightful takeaways, reflections on the lessons Akil learned, limitations of the research, and recommendations for community action. Hopefully you’re inspired to create change in your own community by the end of this episode!

Learn more about the key concepts and people discussed in today's episode!

• The Community Ecology Institute (CEI)
• Soil for Life (SFL)
• What are “third places” ?
• Land tenure
• Surgeon General’s Advisory on Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation
• My friend Elizabeth Saunders’ Thesis
• My research methods
• My themes for analysis
  1. Healthy human relationships;
  2. Oppressive systems and community transformation
  3. Gardens and farms as essential goods
  4. Organizational features and operations

Episode Script

Episode Sources

Have a question or feedback? Email me at alc332@georgetown.edu!