When Frances Moore Lappé published Diet for a Small Planet in 1971, she helped move vegetarianism into the American mainstream and inspired a generation to see food as a force for political and environmental activism. More than half century and three million copies later, the book’s message is more urgent and relevant than ever as we work tocombat the climate crisis, reverse inequity, and feed and heal our communities.
Last year, Lappé released a new 50th anniversary edition of this revolutionary book, including a new introduction to address the current political climate, along with new plant-based recipes. In this passage, she discusses why protecting our democracy is so essential to creating a sustainable and equitable food future.