Sugan Barkman of Working Theory Farm

The 530th recipient is Sugan Barkman of Working Theory Farm in Hillsboro, OR. Sugan writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “Self-care means remembering that I am a part of the system of care I'm working within. Food access is care work, but so often farmers leave themselves out of the web of care. I desire to care for my body and self with the same passion and interest I have for caring for the land and the community. I think integrating self-care and well-being (as well as work-life harmony) is one small piece of the puzzle that differentiates food access work from food sovereignty movements.”

How I might use this $100 self-care award: ”This award would help me feel like I am allowed to spend money on self-care that I've been putting off for financial reasons. It also helps me remember that this work is valued by others, and that my contributions matter. Farming is both romanticized work and invisible work, and I take the weight of my work home with me.” 

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "Body care, access to prepared food, and opportunities for connection with community that I don't get when I'm in the height of production season.”

#realfarmercare