Work

How to address resource inequity in collaborative work: Reflections on partnerships between Vermont and Puerto Rico

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This reflective essay details my experiences as a professor in a small land-grant university working with counterparts in Puerto Rico. Our work aimed at enhancing food resilience of both regions. While we forged lifelong friendships and learning partnerships, the structural legacies of colonialism and resource inequality created barriers and ultimately prevented further collaboration. I also discuss how compliance culture in my home institution is not only a nuisance but creates incentives in direct opposition to the goals of our work. I conclude with implications for future partnerships between scholars in regions with different capacities and procedures.

Source: Journal of Agriculture Food Systems and Community Development

DOI: 10.5304/jafscd.2025.142.021

Author: David Conner

Institution: University of Vermont

Language: English

Topic: Decolonial Thought and Epistemologies

Subfield: Anthropology

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $500