Special Topics in Global Health (390-0-30)

Topic

Indigenous Foodways: Cultivating Mind, Body, and S

Meeting Info

Shepard Hall B25: Mon 10:00AM - 12:50PM

Overview of class

Explore the profound connection between Indigenous food, culture, and well-being in this illuminating course. Delve into the cultural relevancy of foods, tracing their origins and understanding their foundational role in Indigenous origin stories. You'll discover how food serves as medicine for the mind, body, and soul, and learn to approach cooking from a place of spirit and love.

This course also examines the vital food sovereignty movement, exploring the environmental impacts on traditional foodways and their far-reaching effects on Indigenous cultures. Develop a holistic understanding and relationship with food, from seed to soil to plate, and uncover the rich heritage embedded within Indigenous culinary traditions.

Taught by Executive Chef Jessica Walks First (Menominee), Illinois' first professionally trained Indigenous chef, and owner of Ketapanen Kitchen, this class will include interactive lectures, discussions, and active cooking in a teaching kitchen on campus.

Class Materials (Required)

Corn Dance: Inspired First American Cuisine by Loretta Barrett Oden (9780806190785) -- https://www.oupress.com/9780806190785/corn-dance/