Indigenous Food Systems Network

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Published on Feb 11, 2014

Decolonizing the Mind: Healing Through Neurodecolonization and Mindfulness -

Author, educator, medical social worker and citizen of the Arikara (Sahnish) and Hidatsa Nations in North Dakota, Michael Yellow Bird, MSW, Ph.D. works with indigenous communities, teaching about healing the trauma of colonialism. On January 24, 2014 he spoke about his experiences at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon, sharing his ideas about how to do go about doing this through techniques of mindfulness, thought and behavior which he refers to as neurodecolonization.

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

In the film Our Land, My People, the Lubicon people tell the story of their 30 year struggle for justice. It's a story of environmental destruction and shocking discrimination. It's also a story of determination and hope.