Seeds of Defiance: How Gardening Became My Form of Protest
May 31, 2020, will forever be etched in my memory as the day I decided to take a stand against the systemic injustices plaguing our society. The sound of police sirens and helicopters outside my window in Los Angeles was a constant reminder of the turmoil brewing in our nation’s streets. The senseless killings of unarmed Black individuals, including George Floyd in Minneapolis and Breonna Taylor in Louisville, had reached a boiling point. As I sat in my room, overwhelmed by emotions, I knew I had to act.
A New Kind of Activism
For me, that action took the form of gardening. It may seem like an unlikely choice, but producing my own microgreens was a deliberate decision to withdraw from a capitalist system that perpetuates inequality. By growing my own food, I’m able to save money that can then be redirected towards supporting marginalized communities and fueling real change.
The Power of Self-Care and Community Support
My approach to gardening is twofold. Firstly, it provides a therapeutic outlet for me to cope with the emotional toll of living under oppressive systems. Secondly, it enables me to contribute to the greater good by directing resources towards women of color who are leading the charge for justice.
Getting Started with Microgreens
Growing microgreens is surprisingly accessible, requiring minimal investment and effort. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Soil (often available for free on Craigslist)
- Seeds (available online)
- A tray with drainage (repurpose an old one or find a cheap alternative)
- A windowsill with decent sunlight
Preparing Your Tray
- Clean and prepare your tray by adding drainage holes if necessary.
- Line your tray with plastic or an organic grow bag to prevent rot and water damage.
- Fill the tray with at least 3 inches of soil, leaving a quarter inch of space at the top.
- Water the soil thoroughly and create horizontal rows for your seeds.
- Plant your seeds, spacing them 1-2 inches apart, and cover with a thin layer of soil.
Caring for Your Microgreens
- Water frequently, but avoid oversaturating the soil.
- Use a spray bottle to mist the soil and prevent pests.
- Harvest your microgreens in 2-3 weeks, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Supporting the Front Lines
As I’ve mentioned, the money I’ve saved from growing my own microgreens has been redirected towards supporting Black women who are leading the charge for change. Here are some incredible individuals on Instagram who are making a difference through education, activism, and entrepreneurship:
@Blackgirlswithgardens, @therapyforblackgirls, @danifromdasouth, and many more.
Join the Movement
In 2-3 weeks, you can be harvesting your own microgreens and contributing to the fight for justice. Will you join me in this quiet yet powerful form of protest?
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