During a recent Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) board meeting, a significant focus was placed on the urgent need for free school meals and the elimination of student lunch debt. Youth organizers from Freedom, Inc. passionately advocated for these changes, sharing personal stories that highlighted the impact of food insecurity on students' educational experiences.

Micah, a youth justice organizer, recounted a humiliating experience from high school when he and his siblings were unable to pay for lunch, emphasizing that no student should feel ashamed for needing food. He called for the district to provide free lunches for all students and to eliminate existing lunch debt, arguing that financial struggles should not dictate a child's access to nourishment.

Selena, another organizer, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that denying students access to food during school hours can lead to health issues and hinder their academic performance. She urged the board to invest in students' well-being by abolishing lunch debt and ensuring that all students receive nutritious meals.

Milka Rimmer highlighted the broader implications of food insecurity, noting that one in six children in Wisconsin faces hunger. She argued that providing free meals would not only support students but also address racial inequalities, particularly affecting students of color.

Adrianna Alexander, a recent high school graduate, stressed the importance of healthy, fresh food options in schools, advocating for a system that allows families to choose nutritious meals. She pointed out that many students come to school hungry, which distracts them from learning.

The meeting featured numerous speakers who shared similar experiences and called for systemic changes. They emphasized that access to food is a fundamental right and that the current system disproportionately affects low-income families, particularly those from communities of color.

The board was urged to take immediate action to ensure that all students have access to free meals, with many speakers arguing that investing in students' nutrition is essential for their academic success and overall well-being. The collective message was clear: the MMSD must prioritize the health and nourishment of its students to foster a more equitable and supportive educational environment.