Dear Friends,
As the nation begins to reopen, we are energized to continue our support of Native communities. In this summer newsletter, we share highlights of our Nourishing Native Foods & Health program, with a look at a few of our community partners that are leading the way in creating food policy, advancing Native food sovereignty, and improving access to healthy produce and proteins. We hope you all are having a safe, healthy summer, and that these features leave you, too, energized and inspired for the future of Indian Country.
The Code to Better Health
When one thinks of good nutrition and positive health outcomes, one might think of food and access. But an essential component to bringing all these elements together is something people may not consider: Food policy. “Our food code is a map,” says Anita Frederick, president of Tribal Nation Research Group (TNRG). “Having a better understanding of it is the only way for us to have more intentionality when it comes to food systems and how we handle food.” In the past year, with funding coming in part through First Nations’ Fertile Ground Advocacy Campaign, TNRG has been able to invest in this roadmap to improve the local food systems and food economy of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa community. Read more.
Bringing Fresh Foods to Zuni – From Fruits, to Vegetables, to Meat
When Darrell Tsabetsaye began his vision for a fresh food market on the Zuni Reservation in 1988, there were few options for just what he had in mind: A self-sustaining food resource of fruits, vegetables, and meats that would not require a long drive to Gallup and that would ultimately improve the health and wellness of the Zuni community. After multiple stops and starts, a construction-slowing pandemic, and new funding and partnerships, that vision is becoming a reality. Today’s Major Market features a grocery, deli, coffee shop, and bakery, as well as educational resources, healthy eat and go meals, and even fresh meat cut to order. And now, with support from First Nations, this market is poised to bring even more benefits to the Zuni community. Read more.
Checking in with the Sicangu Lakota Oyate and Rosebud Economic Development Corporation
The Rosebud Economic Development Corporation (REDCO) is a familiar name at First Nations. REDCO is a chartered corporation created by the Sicangu Lakota Nation (Rosebud Sioux Tribe) to promote its economic growth. This longtime community partner has grown their food system from a barren garden on a hill into an award-winning vision that is a prototype for communities nationwide. First Nations is honored to be one of the early-stage funders of REDCO and to share highlights of the organization’s progress and successes over the years, and what’s on the horizon for the future. Read more.
Meet Luce Indigenous Knowledge Fellow Corine Pierce
The termination period of the 1950s and 1960s had a devastating impact on many tribal nations. During this time, the government terminated recognition of more than 100 tribes as sovereign dependent nations. Despite these losses, however, basket weaving remained an honored and valued tradition among Pomo people, and many traditional Pomo baskets still exist today. Corine Pearce (Redwood Valley Little River Band of Pomo), who is among the first cohort of Luce Indigenous Knowledge Fellows, believes that these baskets are key to strengthening and empowering her people and community. Learn more in this Luce Indigenous Knowledge Fellowship profile.
Committed to Mission, Not Checking a Box
Outdoor gear brand Revelry pledges ongoing support to investing in Native lands and communities
According to Revelry cofounder and CEO Brandon Stewart, the brand of Revelry boils down to authenticity. Just like the passions of the people running it, Revelry’s foundation is built on quality experiences with a love and appreciation for the natural world. With a solid footing of who they are and what their brand represents, Revelry approached First Nations with a plan to make a difference, and every month, that’s exactly what they’re doing. Meet Brandon here.
