November is Native American Heritage month, and Farm to School programs are an excellent place to showcase this heritage. Traditional Native foods in school gardens and cafeterias can have a profound impact on nutrition and culture alike.
Last May in Chicago I was privileged to to meet with young people working in Native American communities across the country on Farm to School gardens. The cultural richness of these gardens – in terms of varieties grown, production methods, and food preparation – is truly inspiring. I must say that some of the best Native garden examples are right here in the Southwest, as described in this summary from Food Corps Arizona – Farm to School in Native Communities: A New Name for an Ancient Practice
“Getting Serious Now” is what I firmly believe we must do regarding the state of the world and its future, especially regarding biodiversity and climate change—and for my part, how food systems fit into that work. I believe we must see with fully open eyes what is happening to our world and its future, but retain the ability to act to improve things. We need to hold in our minds both the devastation of our natural world that we have caused, are causing now, and what needs to be done to reduce further impacts, and, the amazing beauty, abundance, resilience, mystery, and enjoyability that remains to be appreciated and preserved. This is essential if we are to evaluate our priorities objectively, gauge the urgency of various actions needed, and avoid the paralysis of denial and hopelessness. Not easy, but I am convinced we can hold both concepts in our minds, and I think we must, in order to help make the changes necessary for our future and that of our grandchildren.