These disparities have a negative impact on development. For instance, in some nations, more women than males are employed in informal small catering enterprises and street food; despite job security, compensation is low, and working conditions are risky. Women, especially in urban settings, frequently take on the double role of generating an income while also being responsible for acquiring and preparing food for their families. This is especially common in the context of food preparation. When gendered societal norms prioritize providing the most significant or desirable portions for men and boys, it is more probable that women and girls would go hungry and suffer from malnutrition. In addition, shocks and pressures brought on by climate change have the potential to increase vulnerabilities that were already present in the food system of a city or region, which means that women are among those who have the lowest capacity to adapt and recover.
When examining urban food systems through the perspective of gender, however, it is not sufficient to focus solely on women or even on gender alone. Inequalities exist for men and boys in various spheres, including educational attainment, dropout rates, criminal activity and violence, and career opportunities. The intersections of people's racial, class, ethnic, and allowed statuses, as well as the other aspects that make up their identities, affect the lived experiences of people of different genders. As a result, it is impossible to have a single, consistent urban dining experience. When looking at a city via an intersectional gender lens, one can see where specific difference exists and consider ways the situation might be improved for all people living in urban areas.
There are vital signs that certain women and persons of colour are heavily affected by the fallout of the pandemic responses, including the loss of livelihoods, an increased risk of food insecurity, and a significant increase in domestic violence. As the vast and wide-ranging impact of pandemic responses has unfolded, it has become clear that these responses have had a considerable effect. Black Lives Matter demonstrations against institutional racism and police brutality are currently occurring in cities across various countries and have ignited significant social change. This must include addressing entrenched racism throughout the food system, which frequently has historical roots in colonialism. Organizations and individuals are committing to fighting for change and negotiating the status quo, and this must be done to confront embedded racism. In this growing new world, still haunted by the epidemic and encouraged by the possibility of widespread system change, the need to address inequities in urban food systems caused by gender, racism, and other social categories that intersect has never been more vital than it is today.
Written By: Techno Journey