Indigenous Food Systems Network

Aboriginal peoples are among the most food insecure groups in Canada, yet their perspectives and knowledge are often sidelined
in mainstream food security debates. In order to create food security for all, Aboriginal perspectives must be included in food
security research and discourse. This project demonstrates a process in which Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal partners engaged in
a culturally appropriate and respectful collaboration, assessing the challenges and barriers to traditional foods access in the urban

The Haida recognize that nature and culture are intrinsically connected, and that the protection of the natural and cultural values on Haida Gwaii is essential to sustaining their culture. The Haida have always had Guardian Watchmen who protected the land and sea from harm. Guardians and Watchmen now work in fisheries, forestry, heritage and parks programs to support the Council of Haida Nations’ priority to protect the Aboriginal rights and title of Haida people.

Wild rice is a traditional food that has virtually disappeared from the diets of Ontarian First Nations peoples and the waterways where it once flourished in the "rice bowl" of Turtle Island.

Our program to advocate for indigenous peoples affected by multilateral development banks is a cornerstone of the work at the Indian Law Resource Center. This project began in the late 1970s when the Center represented the Yanomami people of Brazil. The Yanomami lived a peaceful and self-sufficient life, with no ties to the global economy, until Brazil received money from the World Bank to build a road through their territory. The road unleashed chaos within the Yanomami communities. Road workers brought malaria and many Yanomami died because they had no resistance to the disease.