Houston, Texas – Facing the possibility of water spinach being banned in Texas, Asian American communities have come together to defend a popular staple in their traditional diet but considered a noxious weed by the federal government.

As part of a statewide advocacy campaign, BPSOS-Houston, in collaboration with other leading Asian Pacific American community organizations, held a town meeting followed by a press conference on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 ahead of a critical meeting of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission that will decide on whether to allow the farming of water spinach. This decision will affect not only the livelihood of water spinach growers and consumers, but also the state economy.

The press conference were well attended by water spinach growers and covered by local and national media. (photo of BPSOS)