TOPEKA, KS – MOTHER EARTH NEWS is debuting the Voices Initiative, a program to increase equitable access in sustainable living. The objective is to value and increase diversity in the presence of experts at MOTHER EARTH NEWS events. Participants will be provided with the resources of MOTHER EARTH NEWS’ established platform and have the opportunity to share their knowledge while in turn advancing equity among historically marginalized communities.
By participating in the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIRs, as well contributing workshops to the FAIR ONLINE platform, and an article for MOTHER EARTH NEWS magazine, among other opportunities, the individuals selected for the Voices Initiative will be provided valuable benefits for their involvement. The 2023 MOTHER EARTH NEWS Voices Initiative application period opened Oct. 10, 2022, and closed on Nov. 7, 2022. It finalized with an announcement on the MOTHER EARTH NEWS website and social media channels in early December 2022, and in the magazine through 2023.
“The goal of this program is to create relationships that go beyond the initiative. Our hope is to create long-lasting relationships that ultimately bring our community closer together. We want MOTHER EARTH NEWS to reflect the diverse backgrounds already found in organic gardening, homesteading and livestock, real food, natural health, sustainable living, and DIY,” said Queren King-Orozco, Voices Initiative Coordinator and Associate Event Producer for the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR.
Andrew Perkins, Director of Events and Business Development, said, “We are very excited about the idea of the Initiative as a means to bring educators from a variety of cultural backgrounds to share their knowledge and experiences with the MOTHER EARTH NEWS audience.” Publisher Bill Uhler noted, “Since 1970, we have sought to find new voices that share a sustainable vision but come to that goal through different thought processes and alternative ideas. The goal of this Initiative is to continue that reach even further, while providing inspiration for all to live lighter on the planet we share.”
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be experienced in organic gardening, homesteading and livestock, real food, natural health, sustainable living, and DIY.
- Identify as — but not limited to — Indigenous/Native Alaskan, African American/Black, Asian American, Asian, Pacific Islander, or Hispanic/Latino, Disabled, LGTBQIA+. We understand these can overlap or intersect, especially in the experiences of marginalized individuals or groups.
- Be engaged in sustainable living while focusing on advancing equity among historically marginalized populations.
- Work or cultivate a space/project based on the above categories.
- Speakers must represent themselves, a non-profit, or a small business.
- The applicant has not participated in the program previously.
What was needed to apply:
- One recommendation letter from someone with whom you have engaged in sustainable living.
- One-page cover letter (stating why you should be selected).
- Be proficient in spoken and written English. (This includes clear communication and interpreters.)
- Must reside in the U.S. to participate in all in-person events. International applicants will be reviewed case-by-case and require more commitment to the online platform while only needing to participate in one in-person event.
If you have any questions, please contact Voices Initiative Coordinator Queren King-Orozco at qkingorozco@ogdenpubs.com.
ABOUT MOTHER EARTH NEWS
Since 1970, MOTHER EARTH NEWS has provided practical and money-saving information on organic gardening, DIY projects, natural health, homesteading, sustainable living, real food and more. MOTHER EARTH NEWS inspires millions to live sustainable lifestyles through its magazine, website, podcasts, events, and online video platforms.
