Trusting the Culture in our Food: Overcoming Barriers for Sustainable Indigenous Foodways

Abstract

In this thesis I delve into the world of traditional, Indigenous agricultural practices. My goal is to examine how these traditional practices of small community-style gardens can help various populations of modern Indigenous people become self-sufficient in today's struggling economy, while at the same time showing how this sustainable food system contributes to the betterment of Mother Earth. Furthermore, this thesis will show the connection these foodways have to the cultural and linguistic practices of Indigenous Peoples and how they can be used to assist preservation of these practices. As a living example, this thesis will explain how the influence of reclamation of their indigenous foods has helped my own tribe, the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin, revitalize their culture. Finally, I will explore the psychology behind why we are hesitant to change and demonstrate how these traditional practices can create a model for Indigenous populations to overcome these psychological barriers, while fitting contemporary societal settings.