Charlotte documentary explores food security in West End

SOL NATION

Bob Willis makes a point during a discussion on the documentary "Food Sovereignty" at Independent Picture House. "Food Sovereignty" examines food insecurity in predominantly Black Charlotte communities.

The screening of a documentary centered on food access and environmental justice became a spirited discussion about solutions.

“Food Sovereignty,” produced by SOL Nation, was shown at the Independent Picture House. The film focuses on food access, environmental justice and the effects of intentional disinterest in developing Black communities like the Beatties Ford Road Corridor, which is featured in the documentary. 

“One of the most powerful parts of the documentary screening was hearing directly from residents,” said Tiffany Fant, executive director of SOL Nation, a Black woman-led environmental justice organization. “We work with residents to build community-led solutions that strengthen health, economic opportunity, and long-term resilience.

“Beatties Ford Road is an important part of the Historic West End community, and like many historically Black corridors across the country, it has experienced decades of disinvestment.” 

Lifelong resident Bob Willis, who was present for the screening, pointed out during the discussion that over the years he had seen large chain grocery stores abandon or overlook predominately Black communities.

“[The documentary] was right on point,” Willis said, “and it was something that was really needed,” adding that it made him happy to see the community congregate to support the film and its vision. 

“It let me know that some people still care in our neighborhoods,” he said. 

While SOL Nation’s focus is not strictly on community revitalization, many of its goals align with helping communities regain and keep control of what happens there. 

“Access to healthy food is one of the clearest indicators of whether a community has been invested in or overlooked,” Fant said. “For decades, many Black residents have had limited access to full-service grocery options. When residents have access to healthy food, economic opportunities, and meaningful roles in shaping development decisions, that naturally contributes to stronger neighborhoods.” 

While the documentary highlights food access disparities, it doesn’t stop there. 

“The film is not simply documenting a problem,” Fant said. “It’s highlighting the solutions and partnerships already emerging from within the community.” 

Tiffany Fant, executive director of SOL Nation.

Fant cited examples like the Three Sisters Market cooperative, which is working to establish a community owned grocery store combining food access and ownership for locals. Another is Weaver Street Market, a worker- and consumer-owned cooperative that plans to expand into Historic West End. 

“Efforts like these are helping create the infrastructure for stronger local food systems,” she said. “Community-led initiatives provide opportunities for residents to contribute ideas, volunteer, and help shape the future of their neighborhoods.” 

While Willis agreed that such community action is important, he called for elected officials to step up as well.  

“We need to hold [politicians] accountable,” he said, “Tell them, ‘If you want my vote, feed the people.’” 

Said Fant: “City and county leaders play an important role. Through policy, funding, and partnership,” adding elected officials are responsible to “ensure that [all] communities have a voice in decisions related to land use.

“The goal is to help demonstrate how a more complete system can emerge, from seed to table and even compost, where local farms, businesses, and residents are connected in ways that strengthen both health and economic opportunity.” 

Willis agreed, adding elders should be part of the movement. 

“It irks me [when] senior citizens are excluded,” he said, “They think we can’t learn. Let us be a part of the solution.” 

“Food Sovereignty" will be screened again on April 11 as part of the Earth Day Film Festival. Fant wants to hold more future screenings and discussions. 

“[We plan] to continue hosting screenings as part of its broader community engagement work, using the film to convene residents, partners, and leaders together to explore solutions,” she said. 
Willis believes change may be within reach. 

“We can solve this problem,” he said. 

On the Net: 
solnation.org

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