Social Movements are a huge part of politics. They offer an avenue for the average person to fight for issues they believe in and actively work for change. One of the fastest growing movements in the US right now combats obesity in both children and adults and works for a healthier America. An article in USA Today discusses a school lunch bill that was recently passed in the Senate. It is working to alter the regulations for safety and nutritional value in food that is served in school cafeterias. I think this is an issue that needs to be taken seriously if we want to improve the quality of life in the US. Health is not something this often related to politics, however the ability to fight for health rights and regulations is very much an aspect of politics. The First Lady, Michelle Obama, is an advocate of healthy eating and living and is working to push schools to buy produce from local farms and establish school gardens. According to the bill schools would get a financial incentive if they adopt the new nutrition standards that the bill requires.
Because of the support from Michelle Obama and other influential people such as Jamie Oliver and Oprah, the Health Movement has a lot of credibility and very much gained it’s position on the legitimacy scale. It is a social movement that I believe everyone can play a part, even if you only make a change within yourself.
Good post! I agree that social movements do involve politics. Obesity is seen a lot in America especially compared to other countries, America was said to be the most overweight country. I am glad that a bill passed for school lunches to alter the regulations for safety and nutritional vale in food that is served in school cafeterias. Since health issues are so important i think it is a good idea to get younger children involved and aware of healthy foods and health issues out there, sometimes it is not the children's fault they eat unhealthy its a product of their parents. But making them aware and providing them with healthier food is a good start for a healthier change. Using Michelle Obama is another way to get more publicity about this event so people become more aware of these issues.
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