Farmer, Activist, Bridge Builder
Growing up in a food desert, Michael was only able to understand food as a tool for survival. Over time, Michael started to see food for what it truly is, a tool to heal and resist. Through his work as a farmer, activist, and community bridge builder at Sweet Freedom Farm, he seeks to give marginalized people, including prisoners, agency in defining their own health through education, opportunity, and access. Michael became active in the food justice movement while he was serving his 14-year prison sentence. He doubled down on his efforts immediately after his release in February of 2022. Since his release, Michael has worked towards creating a food justice network that can expand his overall impact. Michael has helped to pioneer the bring back care packages movement, speaking about it in interviews and publishing an article about it. He has worked with the Sing Sing Family Collective; RAPP (Releasing Ageing People in Prison campaign); All Of Us; Vocal-NY; Kites Nest; Center for Community Alternatives, and the Shared Plate Fun. As a bridge-builder, Michael created a panel discussion series to highlight the struggles of formerly incarcerated people and has been hosting farm stands at Sing Sing Correctional Facility. He attends rallies and protests; advocates to senators and assembly members; while continuing to write and speak about the issues he cares about.