Driven by passion and determination, our 4th-grade students from Jasper Elementary School recently visited the Indiana Statehouse to advocate for the persimmon as Indiana's state fruit. Their enthusiastic voices presented a compelling case, but sadly, the bill was rejected. However, like the resilient spirit of Hoosiers, these young advocates are not giving up. They are preparing to rally support across Indiana once again, inviting residents to join them in their effort to make the persimmon a symbol of our state's natural heritage. 

Please read the students’ proposal to the Indiana legislators.

Introduction

We are proposing that the persimmon be made the official state fruit of Indiana. The persimmon has many health benefits and is native to Indiana. We currently lack a state fruit like nineteen other states, and the persimmon tree wood and fruit could potentially boost our economy. For these reasons, persimmons should be the official state fruit of Indiana.

Health Benefits

Persimmons have many health benefits. Did you know that persimmons reduce inflammation and have vitamins A, B, and C? They also contain potassium and calcium, and they are low in calories while still providing energy boosts. Persimmons help the digestive system because they are high in fiber. In addition, they are loaded with antioxidants, promote heart health, and regulate blood sugar. Another health benefit worth mentioning is that persimmons help to reduce cholesterol to clear your arteries. 

Native to Indiana 

The persimmon tree can grow 35-60 ft tall. While they are usually grown in Southern and Central Indiana, they can also grow in Northern Indiana. The persimmon has grown in Indiana for centuries because of all the rich soil. In Mitchell, Indiana, there is a persimmon festival that is held annually every September. The name persimmon comes from the Greek word ‘Diospyros’ [dye-yo-spy-rous], which means “Fruit of The Gods.” It gets this vivid name due to the sweet and juicy taste. Another interesting fact is that the Native Americans of Indiana ate dried persimmons. According to folklore, many people in Indiana used persimmon seeds to predict the weather. Have you ever seen the fork, spoon, or knife shape in the persimmon?

No State Fruit

Indiana currently lacks a state fruit. If we designate the persimmon as the official state fruit of Indiana, we will be known as the persimmon state. As we have explained, this is a perfect selection for Indiana, and if it is made official,that would make only eighteen states without a state fruit. We would be the 32nd state to adopt a state fruit. Indiana has a state bird, insect, flower, song, and  river—so why not a fruit?

Economy

The persimmon can greatly boost Indiana’s economy. It could stand out because of its unique character. The fruit could transform into a symbol that represents Indiana, and this could catch people's attention and help persimmon farmers around Indiana. In addition, persimmon wood is good for many things. It can be used to make golf clubs, musical instruments, drum sticks, tool handles, furniture, flooring, and veneers. Last but not least, persimmons are excellent to bake with, especially when ripe. Ripe persimmons are great in pudding, baking bars, and even cookies too! Doesn’t that sound delicious!? These items could potentially bring great business to Indiana.

Conclusion

These four reasons are why the persimmon should be the official state fruit for Indiana. Thank you for reading our presentation to the Indiana legislators. We would like you to think about it and sign the petition based on the reasons proposed.

By joining this initiative, you are supporting not just a fruit, but the dedication of young Hoosiers who embody our future. It's about advancing a cause rooted in authenticity and a love for our home state. Let's honor this unique aspect of Indiana's identity and help these students see the impact of their civic engagement.

Hoosiers, let's gather together to showcase our spirit and pride. Sign the petition and help advance the persimmon to its rightful place as Indiana's state fruit. Stand with our youth and stand for Indiana!