While many of us don’t give a second thought to where our food comes from or who grows it, I’m reminded of the deep farming roots here in Wisconsin every time I walk through one of the many local farmers’ markets in the region. You can see the care and passion in the eyes of farmers, especially BIPOC farmers and their families, as they bring the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor to our tables. And when I think of the local farming scene and the importance of BIPOC leadership one name always comes to mind, Robert Pierce.
A south-side Madison native, Robert Pierce isn’t just a farmer, he’s a pioneer. As the founder of the Southside Farmers Market and a driving force behind the markets we see all around town today, Mr. Pierce has set the standard for how food should be grown and distributed. His roots run deep, both in the land and in the community. Known as a trailblazer throughout Wisconsin and beyond, Pierce has not only cultivated crops but has also built and nurtured a community around food justice and education.
Back in 1982 fresh out of business school (well, as Robert says, more like “freshly dropped out”), Robert Pierce saw an opportunity and made a choice that seemed unconventional at the time. Instead of continuing down the corporate path, he decided to return to what he knew best: farming. And let’s just say, it was a needed call as Robert saw the health of elders he looked up to in his community decline after fast food restaurants set up shop on Park Street. That moment and others sparked a fire in him to create change. With that fire he started “Half The 40 Acres”.
With 5 children in tow, Robert has launched initiatives that have touched countless lives. From creating urban gardens on Madison’s south side to establishing programs for youth, formerly incarcerated individuals and so many others, his work has been a lifeline for countless people. With the community’s wellness becoming a mess, he’s made it his mission to use the food they grow to heal himself and his family from illnesses as well as educate, uplift and, most importantly, provide fresh, organic, locally grown produce to the community.
If you ever get the chance to chat with Mr. Pierce, as he says, “I’m here to share knowledge and not take it to his grave.” His passion for growing food and nurturing the community is contagious. He lights up when he talks about the soil, the seeds, and the people he’s helped along the way. It’s hard not to walk away feeling inspired and a little more thankful.
Speaking of thankfulness, let’s pause for a moment to give a nod to all the farmers, those seen and unseen, who put food on our tables.
So next time you bite into that fresh okra or sweet melon, think of the farmers like Robert Pierce who make it possible. Their work is a labor of love, and for that, we should all be thankful.
