Anqi Xie, grade 12
La Jolla Country Day High School, La Jolla, CA
Teacher: Casey Walker

For immigrants, moving across the world to the United States is a tremendous change. The language, culture, and cuisine are different. A community garden for immigrant families offers a space to grow culturally significant, organic produce. Located in an accessible area, it fosters cross-cultural connections. The garden hosts farming classes for kids and “Feast Days,” where families cook and share their harvests. It’s more than a garden—it’s a community within a community. Food evokes nostalgia and a sense of belonging. This garden provides immigrants with a safe space to grow familiar, organic produce while building connections. It fosters a welcoming environment, strengthening cultural identity and integration. Similar gardens could be implemented nationwide to help diverse communities feel more at home.

Featured Image: different. A community garden for immigrant families offers a space to grow culturally significant, organic produce. Located in an accessible area, it fosters cross-cultural connections. The garden hosts farming classes for kids and “Feast Days,” where families cook and share their harvests.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *