Putting Tribal Sovereignty in Food Sovereignty
In a recent feature by Fields of Possibility, Kelli Case (Chickasaw Nation), Senior Staff Attorney at the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI), shared insights on the intersection of Tribal food sovereignty and organic agriculture. “We’re not just talking about food access—we’re talking about food autonomy,” Case said, highlighting the deep-rooted connection between food systems, cultural identity, and Tribal governance.
The article explores IFAI’s mission to enhance the health and wellness of Tribal communities through healthy food systems, diversified economic development, and the preservation of cultural food traditions. It also delves into the historical impacts of Federal Indian Policy and how those legacies continue to shape food access and land use in Indian Country today.
Case also discussed the importance of building partnerships between Tribal communities and organic advocates, noting that shared values around sustainability, land stewardship, and community health offer powerful opportunities for collaboration.
For the full article, click below.