Slow Food USA: Portland OR

Why I chose the Slow path... Many years back, as I began to explore the connection between food, health, and healing, something shifted in me. "What began as a personal journey to nourish my family’s body and mind with intention soon evolved into a deeper awareness of where our food came from, how it was grown, and who was behind it."

That path led me to Slow Food, a global organization a movement that champions Good, Clean, and Fair food for all. There I was, in Cupertino, CA, surrounded by like-minded people who believed that food should do more than just fill us it should sustain the planet, support animal welfare, and honor those who grow, raise, and craft it with care.

Slow Food is rooted in compassion for livestock, a critical look at the environmental impact of industrial farming, and a deep respect for cultural food traditions. Through initiatives like the Ark of Taste, the movement also helps preserve biodiversity by identifying and protecting heirloom foods that might otherwise be lost celebrating ethical sourcing and the integrity of those who keep these traditions alive.

For me, this isn’t just a philosophy it’s a way of living. It’s about slowing down, being present with our choices, and recognizing that every bite carries a story.

Briefly about Slow Food, and the philosophy behind it.

Slow Food USA and the Global Slow Food movement, which began in Italy in 1986 as a response to the rise of fast food and the erosion of local food cultures.

The founder, Carlo Petrini, sparked the movement by protesting the opening of a McDonald’s near the Spanish Steps in Rome. What started as a cultural resistance soon evolved into a global grassroots organization promoting food that is:

• Good – Quality, flavorsome, and healthy

• Clean – Produced in ways that do not harm the environment

• Fair – Accessible prices for consumers and fair conditions and pay for producers

Slow Food USA

The U.S. branch carries that same torch and adapts it to local communities across the country. They work to reconnect people with where their food comes from and how it's made and to protect biodiversity, preserve food heritage, and promote sustainable farming practices. Education, advocacy, and community-building are core to their programs

the interconnectedness of health, justice, and sustainability in food systems. Their motto,

“Good, Clean, and Fair food for all,” isn't just an aspiration it’s a guiding principle for action.

Get Involved with Slow Food USA

Curious to do more than just eat better? Here are a few ways to engage with the Slow Food movement.

• Join a Local Chapter or simply head over for some events (usually free) : Many cities have Slow Food communities that host potlucks, seed swaps, cooking classes, and advocacy events. Find a chapter near you, for Portland in Oregon email: emailhello@slowfoodportland.com OR to find a chapter near you: www.slowfoodusa.com

• Attend a Slow Food Event: Look for local or national gatherings like Terra Madre Day, farm tours, or educational workshops.

• Support Food Justice: Slow Food works to ensure that healthy food isn’t a privilege, but a right. Donations and volunteer hours help fund school gardens, indigenous food initiatives, and climate-resilient agriculture.

• If you are a small-mid or large farm look into the ARK of Taste program. There's over 150 countries participating.

Member of Slow food USA