While food insecurity has permeated Black communities across America, the rate of obesity in our children has more than tripled over the past four decades. This same crisis is affecting Black children throughout the diaspora. Thankfully, some countries are making drastic changes.
Barbados, too, has been plagued with an epidemic of childhood obesity. Societal and economic issues and ease of access to unhealthy foods have all added to the problem. Last year, the country's government and concerned parents decided to take action.
With 31% of Bajan children considered obese, plans needed to be implemented quickly. Last year, the Bajan cabinet did precisely that. Not only did they increase the tax on sugary foods, but they also rolled out an entirely new school nutrition program.
Barbados is spending over $9 million (USD) to ensure its children's health and future welfare. The Barbados School Nutrition Policy began rolling out at the beginning of the year with the goal to boost positive nutritional choices among Bajan children in the hopes of curbing the issue of childhood obesity.
Black-led countries are actively trying to ensure the health and prosperity of their future generations. Investing in the health of our children is paramount. We aren't in a Black-led country, but that doesn't mean we can't put our energy behind pushing for the same here.