Douglas County Unveils Groundbreaking Indigenous Food Systems Study and Action Plan: A Path to Sustainable Local Food Practices

Douglas County has made a significant step by launching Kansas’ first Indigenous-led food systems plan. This initiative aims to honor and revive the Native food traditions that have shaped local culture for generations.

Created in collaboration with Indigenous leaders, the Indigenous Food Systems Study and Action Plan addresses critical gaps in accessing and preserving Native foodways. It stems from discussions initiated by local Indigenous farmers who highlighted the need for better representation and resources in the county’s food planning.

The Douglas County Food Policy Council (DCFPC) received support from the Kansas Health Foundation to kickstart this important work. Partners include Haskell Indian Nations University’s USDA Extension Office and the University of Kansas’ Office of Sovereign Partnerships and Indigenous Initiatives.

“While the county has a food plan that includes many equitable policies, it lacks focus on Indigenous food systems,” shared Connie Fiorella Fitzpatrick, a local food systems specialist. “This plan aims to fill that void.”

Led by a dynamic team of Indigenous voices, including educators and activists, the initiative emphasizes community involvement in navigating food and cultural resources.

During the launch event, community members gathered to share stories and participate in hands-on activities, like processing squash and shelling traditional corn. Local chefs prepared traditional dishes, fostering discussions about how Indigenous food systems contribute to cultural identity and local agriculture. These conversations included topics such as sourcing traditional ingredients and how to support local Indigenous food growers.

A notable aspect of the event was the emphasis on community connection through activities that encouraged people to reflect on their ties to various plants and foods. Star Her Many Horses, a student involved in the initiative, expressed the project’s potential: “This is an opportunity for us to celebrate our culture and come together as a community.”

Engagement with traditional foods not only feeds the body but also nourishes the spirit, as the initiative seeks to strengthen cultural ties among the community. Fitzpatrick remarked on the importance of developing local access to culturally relevant foods, calling out the absence of Indigenous grocery options in the area.

While the current grant funding does not cover the establishment of an Indigenous grocery store, there are hopes for future phases of the project that could make this a reality. The project’s logo, designed by Indigenous artist JayCee Beyale, carries deep cultural significance, incorporating elements that symbolize the sacred nature of corn and water, essential to the locality.

This initiative is more than just about food; it is about ensuring the visibility and participation of Indigenous communities in their cultural practices. As community members reconvene for workshops and activities, there is a clear goal: to build a strong support network around Indigenous traditions and practices in Lawrence and Douglas County.

The Indigenous Food Systems Study and Action Plan serves as a vital stepping stone towards enriching the cultural fabric of the area, emphasizing the transformative power of food as a bridge between generations and cultures. For further insights, you can read more on the historical impact of Indigenous food systems [here](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4332840/).

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