Reconciliation through Food
“As National Indigenous Peoples Day approaches, I'm struck by the profound role food plays in our path to reconciliation,” said Adrian Jacobs, senior leader for Indigenous Justice.
“The kitchen, alive with laughter and communal meals, has always been a place where Indigenous communities find connection and healing. It's a space where stories are shared and the ‘dish with one spoon’ principle is honored—a recognition of the earth's abundance and our interconnectedness, all partaking in its blessings.”
The important role that food plays in reconciliation is a key theme of this year’s Christian Reformed Church resources for National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. This holiday has been observed in Canada since 1996 to celebrate the cultures and contributions of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people.
The Indigenous Ministries of the Canadian ministry office of the Christian Reformed Church include the Canadian Indigenous Ministries Committee, support for three urban Indigenous ministry centres, and Jacobs’s role as senior leader. Every year, for National Indigenous People’s Day, resources are shared with Canadian CRC congregations to help them mark this holiday.
“This National Indigenous Peoples Day isn't just a date on the calendar; it's a celebration of our people's resilience and the traditions that uphold it. It's a time for unity and understanding, honoring our collective journey,” said Jacobs.
This year, the resources center on food and specifically tell the story of how donuts helped bridge the gap between Indigenous peoples and Dutch settlers hundreds of years ago.
“Food transcends mere sustenance; it embodies unity and respect. It speaks to how we treat one another in this bountiful land that provides for us all. Around a table, whether in jubilation or sorrow, we affirm our shared humanity, embracing values of compassion and generosity,” Jacobs added. “Our celebrations are imbued with joy and laughter, even amid somber occasions – like funerals, where a shared hot roast beef meal brings solace and reminds us of resilience. These traditions, passed down through generations, speak to our community's strength and endurance.”
With this theme in mind, as part of this year’s materials, the CRCNA’s Canadian Indigenous Ministries Committee is offering an exclusive collection of five Indigenous recipes to anyone who makes a donation of any size toward its mid-year campaign to raise $20,000.
“These recipes aren't just about food; they're a tapestry of our culture, heritage, and cherished values. By cooking and sharing these meals, we nourish not only our bodies but also a sense of togetherness and solidarity,” Jacobs concluded. “Each recipe is a testament to the rich traditions of our Indigenous peoples.”
