Engaging Community, Uplifting Native Foods in California

August 7, 2026

In July, Indigenous Futures Society, a community partner through First Nations’ California Tribal Fund, hosted the Nation Builders gathering, “Imagining Meadows.” The celebration was a day of land-based learning, cultural connection, and professional development for emerging Indigenous leaders across the Sierra Nevada.

First Nations Director Rebecca Tortes (Cahuilla, Payómkawichum, and Assiniboine Sioux) attended the event and took part in the ceremonial processing of a quail. “This was a wonderful opportunity to come together in tradition and knowledge,” Rebecca says. “First Nations was honored to support this work as part of our commitment to Native youth leadership and community-defined solutions.”