Gulf Islands Food Co-op

Education 2019: Honouring Indigenous Food Creation and Practices

In the spring of 2019, the Gulf Islands Food Co-op was grateful to host Honouring Indigenous Food Creation and Practices learning events.  This was on the Coast Salish traditional territories of Pender Island (March 9) and Saturna Island (March 30).

This was with great thanks to Elder Seliliye (Belinda Claxton) of the Tsawout First Nation, and also Elder Lillian Underwood (Southern Tutchone from the Kluane First Nation of the Yukon).

After an opening circle, groups of islanders first learned to make delicious pink soapberry “ice cream” plus two kinds of bannock.  Then we gathered in circle again, to feast and to learn more.

Elder Seliliye taught us about the amazing Thirteen Moon Calendar (see below), including all the most precious Tsawout foods, and times of the year for gathering or creating them.  From Elder Lillian we also learned about Tutchone food practices, including living on the land and hunting moose.

You can also see Indigenous Food Resources, for the wonderful books shared by Belinda about Tsawout history, Coast Salish food practices, and some images of our two gatherings below.

We give big thanks to the honoured Elders, and also the CRD and Vancity for supporting these learning events!