Overview
Instructions for the Food Justice Report (5–7 pages total)
Objective: Write a concise, visually engaging, and accessible report on a specific food justice issue. Your report should clearly explain the problem, why it matters, and propose a realistic solution—all grounded in a theoretical framework that helps explain the root causes and broader context of the issue.
Each report begins with an Executive Summary [500 words of less](this is written at completion of your project but placed at the beginning of a report to provide an overview to the reader)
• A brief overview of the food justice issue being addressed.
• Key findings and conclusions of the report.
• Main recommendation or suggestion for action.
1. Title Page (Approx. 1 page)
• Title of your report
• Your name
• Course info / Date
• Optional: Include a relevant image or map
2. Introduction (Approx. ½ page)
• Define the topic you selected or terms of food justice you are using in your own words (with reference to a source).
• Briefly introduce the specific issue you are focusing on (e.g., this will a piece or section of what you prepared for your poster research)
• Mention where this issue is occurring.
• End with a clear purpose statement: What does your report aim to do?
3. Theoretical Framework (Approx. ½–1 page)
• Choose one theory to help analyze your issue, as discussed in class or applied in your poster project
• Briefly explain the theory in simple terms and show how it relates to your topic.
• Example: “This report uses the concept of structural inequality to understand how systemic barriers—like redlining and underfunded neighborhoods—create unequal access to healthy food.”
4. The Problem (Approx. 2 paragraphs –1 page)
• Describe the food justice issue in more detail:
o Who is affected? How and why?
o What are the historical or systemic factors contributing to the issue?
• Use data where possible (e.g., income levels, store access, health outcomes).
• Include at least one map (e.g., USDA food access, or self-made map).
• Add one or more graphs or tables to illustrate trends or comparisons.
5. Why It Matters (Approx. 1 page)
• Explain why the issue is important for the community.
• Discuss health, economic, or social impacts.
• Where relevant and available include media/news stories, quotes, or community perspectives, photos, or interviews.
• Use clear, simple language to keep it accessible to non-experts.
6. Realistic & Solvable Solution/Recommendation (Approx. 2 paragraphs –1 page)
• Propose one doable solution that fits your project context:
o Who can help implement it (e.g., local orgs, city leaders, residents)?
o How could it be funded or supported?
o What makes it realistic?
o The recommendation may be directed towards policymakers, communities, NGOs, or other stakeholders.
• Support your idea with examples of similar programs or policies that have worked.
• Consider including a visual (flowchart or concept sketch) to show how your solution works.
7. Conclusion (½ page max)
• Summarize the problem, your theoretical lens, and your solution.
• Emphasize why action matters now.
• Offer a call to action or final thought.
8. References / Sources (Final page)
• List all data sources, maps, articles, and any quotes you used.
• Use a consistent citation format (ASA format – this is a Sociology Course).
• Make sure all visuals also have source info (either in the caption or reference list).
Style & Formatting Tips
• Length: 5–7 pages total (including visuals and references)
• Font: 11–12 pt, easy-to-read
• Spacing: single space or 1.5, but not more
• Use headings and subheadings for clarity
• Keep language simple, clear, and engaging
• Make sure maps/graphs are labeled and explained