Farming In Relationship to Earth (FIRE) Immersion
Applications cycle February 23 @ noon EST through March 6, 2026 @ 5pm EST
PURPOSE
The Soul FIRE Immersion (Farming In Relationship to Earth) is designed for beginner and intermediate growers of Black, Indigenous, and Latine heritage to gain basic skills in regenerative farming in a culturally relevant, supportive, and joyful environment. By the end of the program you will have the knowledge to grow and prepare your own food, and the tools to begin a comprehensive commercial farm training if you choose that path. It is our hope that you will also deepen your connection to land, heal from inherited trauma rooted in oppression on land, and take steps toward your personal food sovereignty.
DESCRIPTION
This summer, for the 12th year, a team of committed farmers, builders and passionate chefs will come together with participants from all over the region and country who are seeking to amplify the land-based skills needed to reclaim leadership as growers and food justice organizers in their communities.
All of this takes place in an affirming environment that centers Afro-Indigenous farming practices and histories, and uplifts the collective wisdom of the group. Each day will include several hours of hands-on work/learning, classes on sustainable living skills plus evening cultural/educational activities.
FIRE Immersion Skills
Participants will leave having practiced many of the following skills:
- make and use compost
- prepare raised beds
- plant from seed
- transplant
- work with perennial fruits
- select and plant cover crops
- properly use hand tools
- test the soil and use amendments
- wild-craft
- care for laying hens
- raise honeybees
- select and utilize medicinal herbs
- harvest and preserve
- cook using whole foods
- plan a garden/small farm
The program brings together training in topics such as soil chemistry and farm planning with a deep analysis of how racism has divorced people of color from the land. From working the earth in hot sun and dreary rain to engaging in vulnerable personal reflection, the immersion is meant to grow us, as much as it is to help us grow food and grow our movements for land sovereignty and community self determination.
Program Details
Read the detailed description before applying.
PROGRAM DATES
FIRE 1: June 7 – 12, 2026
FIRE 2: July 12 – 17, 2026
TIMELINE
2/23 – Application launches at noon EST
3/6 – Application deadline at 5pm EST
5/1 – Notification by 11pm EST
We are completely committed to making the program affordable to everyone. The REAL cost of one participant’s attendance at the Soul Fire Farming Immersion is around $1200, yet some participants pay much less than that. We welcome contributions to help offset the costs to run this unique and transformational program.