Come Celebrate Sustainable African Food Practices at the Portland Roots Festival

The first annual Portland Roots Festival will be kicking off on Sep. 1 at Pioneer Courthouse Square.

Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives Inc.'s first culturally specific event will highlight food practices of African people. It's an all ages event and admission is free for everyone.

"Come explore the ancient and sustainable food practices of the African people right from Portland's Living Room," says Nuhamin Eiden of PCRI. "Show your support for small, local, independently owned businesses, including fresh produce from PCRI community gardens."

The festival will feature food vendors, art and performances from African-American, Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Cuban and other African Diaspora populations in Portland.

Will Allen of Growing Power Inc., a national nonprofit will deliver the keynote address. Allen is a nationally recognized figure in the agriculture movement, who has been featured in publications such as the New York Times, Newsweek and Oprah. A former professional basketball player, he trains community members to become community farmers. He believes everyone, regardless of economic status, should have access to fresh, safe, affordable and nutritious food.

Growing Power's mission is "To inspire communities to build sustainable food systems that are equitable and ecologically sound; creating a just world, one food-secure community at a time."

The goal of the festival is to raise awareness to promote healthy living through healthy food choices and activities.

Portland Roots Festival runs from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sep. 1 at Pioneer Courthouse Square. For more information, go to the PCRI website.