A Legacy of Faith and Justice: Pan African Hunger Justice Leaders

“And what doth the Lord require of thee but to do justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.”
—Micah 6:8

Pan African Hunger Justice Leaders led in the seasons of biblical and apostolic life—throughout time and still today. Recently, Bread for the World honored its 50th anniversary of faithful advocacy and this included honoring the legacy of Pan African Justice Leaders.

Sadly, the stories, memories, and advocacy of People of Africa and of African Descent as Hunger Justice Leaders of Faith have had limited attention and regard. Indeed, this legacy has been more of a footnote in the ecumenical and social histories/herstories of Civil Rights and Human Rights. One of the keys ways to addressing the importance of this Pan African Hunger Justice agenda is to explore and excavate this legacy—to provide lessons for future generations.

The 50th Anniversary Advocacy Summit Pan African Consultation offered an inspiring and informative opportunity to share how faith-fueled resilience and advocacy have driven transformational change in the fight against hunger. Pan African leaders imparted their experience at Bread for the World’s 50th anniversary, held at the Museum of the Bible.

In addition, a new book, A Legacy of Faith and Justice: Pan African Advocacy and Leadership for Ending Hunger, illuminates the lessons of this rich history by sharing Biblical illustrations and theological reflections of Pan African Hunger Justice leadership as well as by examining structures, policies, and contexts related to the past, present, and future that have and can further the mission of ending hunger—even in our lifetime.

The key themes of the Consultation, shaped by the book and the book’s contributing writers, included: spiritual and cultural foundations of Pan-African hunger advocacy; profiles of leaders who shaped and continue to shape justice movements; the intersection of faith, public policy, and grassroots mobilization; and lessons in perseverance, unity, and the power of collective action.

Although hunger and poverty continue to disproportionately affect Pan-African communities around the world, A Legacy of Faith and Justice and its contributing writers tell a different story—one of hope, unity, and powerful leadership. Through vivid storytelling, the critical role that Pan-African leaders have played in developing and implementing effective practices and policies to end hunger is highlighted. The book celebrates the passion, leadership, and unwavering faith of often-overlooked Pan African leaders in the Bible and since through faith and social justice narratives.

Both the 50th Anniversary Advocacy Summit Pan African Consultation and the debut of this book provided more than a historical account: “It was and is a call to action from Pan African Justice leaders.”

Angelique Walker-Smith is senior associate for Pan African and Orthodox Church engagement at Bread for the World.