Celebrating LGBTQ+ Changemakers in the Fight Against Global Hunger
On June 12, 2024, the Congressional Hunger Center held an awards ceremony to honour two key drivers in the global fight against hunger: Kraft Heinz, recognised as the Corporate Partner Hunger Leadership Award recipient, and Bryan Pride, Technical Programs Director at Rise Against Hunger, who received the Rising Star Hunger Leadership Award.
The ceremony, which took place in Washington, D.C., highlighted the significant strides made by these awardees in addressing food insecurity worldwide. Their work, often in collaboration with marginalised and vulnerable communities, deeply resonates with LGBTQ+ advocacy in pushing for equitable and inclusive human rights.
Kraft Heinz: Pioneering Corporate Responsibility
Kraft Heinz, Rise Against Hunger's largest corporate partner since 2013, was recognized for its longstanding commitment to combat food insecurity. The company's multifaceted approach includes supporting sustainable agricultural projects that aim to solve long-term hunger issues, emergency response initiatives that aid communities in crisis, and direct meal distribution efforts. A key element of this initiative is the provision of micronutrient sachets that fortify meals - a vital step ensuring that even the most vulnerable, including LGBTQ+ communities who often face additional barriers to accessing nutritious food, receive essential nutrients.
In the last two years alone, Kraft Heinz’s contributions have enabled Rise Against Hunger to reach nearly 9 million people across 48 countries. This year, Kraft Heinz further committed to this cause by pledging $15 million over the next three years. Their work underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility, especially when aligning with global humanitarian efforts that uplift diverse communities worldwide.
Bryan Pride: A Passionate Advocate for Inclusive Food Security
Bryan Pride's journey with Rise Against Hunger began during his two-year Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellowship. It is during this period that he spent a year intensively working on food security programming with the organisation. Recognising his potential and dedication, Rise Against Hunger brought Bryan onboard full-time after he completed his fellowship in 2021.
Bryan's contribution has since been transformative. His approach incorporates nutrition into sustainable agriculture and food security programs, working hand-in-hand with local leaders and in-country partners. This community-based practice is especially pertinent when considering the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals who often face stigmatisation and exclusion, even in humanitarian efforts.
The Rising Star Hunger Leadership Award underscores Bryan's diligent effort and commitment. His leadership within Rise Against Hunger serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, highlighting that inclusivity and community engagement are pivotal in tackling global issues like hunger.
A Shared Vision for Change
Rise Against Hunger, the driving force behind this collaborative effort, embodies a comprehensive approach to solving world hunger. By distributing over 600 million meals globally through a network spanning the U.S. and six international offices, their mission aligns closely with LGBTQ+ advocacy: ensuring every individual, regardless of their orientation or identity, has access to nourishment and the opportunity to thrive.
As these awards recognise and honour the outstanding contributions of both Bryan Pride and Kraft Heinz, it is a clarion call to the LGBTQ+ community and allies to continue supporting initiatives that foster inclusivity and eradicate barriers. It's about ensuring that every plate of food brings not just sustenance, but also dignity and respect for every individual.
For more on Rise Against Hunger and ways to get involved, visit their website. In the spirit of Pride Month and beyond, let’s celebrate these efforts and amplify voices and actions that forge a more equitable world for all.