Tanana Chiefs Conference recently comprised a video series on food sovereignty in collaboration with the First Nations Development Institute, and we are excited to begin circulating them. Each of the videos focuses on different facets of the importance of food sovereignty in Alaska’s rural villages; with common themes of cultural identity and the need to preserve the habitats of wildlife in order to preserve the ability for future generations to practice these traditions.
In our first video in the series, Eva Burk from Nenana discusses food sovereignty as a part of indigenous identity; recalling spending summers at fish camp with her grandfather, and the need to protect traditional foods. “When you have the ability to share food, then you have the ability to practice your culture,” she says. “That makes you stronger as indigenous people.” Eva’s call to action regarding the impact of commercial fishing on wild salmon supply includes educating the public on the benefits of traditional foods for all cultures in Alaska. “We have a lot of work to do to change policy and educate people,” she states.
These videos can be helpful in supporting your own food sovereignty efforts; shared in school settings, meetings, and community gatherings.
Funding made possible from the First Nations Development Institute, in partnership with Denakanagga. We’d like to thank the Indigenous Peoples” Fund at Tides for sponsoring this campaign to spread awareness of food sovereignty, and its benefits to all people in Alaska.
To view all of the videos in our Indigenous Food Sovereignty series, use this link.