The Canadian Pioneer: The Genesis of Urban Food Policy in Toronto

Abstract

This paper details the foundational history and the present dynamics of the Toronto Food Policy Council (TFPC) as an example of successful food planning and policy in motion. The TFPC connects food issues with a suite of agendas to make the food lens more visible and relevant to policymakers, businesses, citizens/eaters, chefs, farmers, food processors and activists, among others. Since the inception of the TFPC, advocacy, enabling and mediation have been essential tools to keep food in the spotlight. As an agile and resourceful organization, the TFPC multiplies its modest resources to make a remarkable contribution to the Toronto food landscape. Key ingredients in achieving this success are the ‘can do’ attitude of the staff and volunteer board, the use of multifunctionality principles and skilful issue management. Notable TFPC contributions include: seminal food policy reports and processes; the celebration of local food communities and their champions; the on-going integration of rural and urban issues; shifting the discussion from food security to food sovereignty; and, the recent launch of the Toronto Food Strategy. By acting as a positive force for social change in Toronto, the TFPC is able to activate transformations that results in a more ‘just city’.