MARCH 2025
WWW.KBIC-NSN.GOV
ISSUE 28
KBIC NEWS ONAABANI GIIZI - CRUSTY MOON
National Nutrition Month: Celebrating Healthy Eating in the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community March is National Nutrition be traced back to disruptions in Month, a time to highlight the traditional diets and lifestyles, which importance of making informed were influenced by historical factors food choices and embracing such as forced relocation and changes healthy eating and physical to food systems. As a result, many tribal activity habits. For KBIC, National members were introduced to highly Nutrition Month is not only an processed foods that have contributed opportunity to focus on nutrition to these ongoing health concerns. but also to celebrate the rich National Nutrition Month reminds us of cultural traditions tied to our the power of nutrition, not only to food systems. This month, we improve individual health but to reflect on how our traditional strengthen our community. By foods can guide us toward reconnecting with our traditional foods, healthier lifestyles while we can promote wellness in KBIC while fostering a deeper connection to honoring our cultural practices and the our culture. teachings of our ancestors. KBIC, like many Native American For centuries, the Ojibwe people have communities, has faced relied on a diet rich in locally sourced, significant health challenges, nutrient-dense foods that are central to including high rates of obesity, our culture and well-being. Our diabetes and heart disease. traditional foods, including wild rice, These health disparties can often fish, game meats, berries, and maple syrup, provide a foundation for healthy eating that has stood the test of time. IN THIS ISSUE Here’s a look at some of the key traditional foods and their health benefits: PRESIDENT’S REPORT Wild Rice: A sacred and essential CEO'S CORNER food for the Ojibwe, wild rice is packed with fiber, protein, and YOUTH PROGRAMS antioxidants. This whole grain supports heart health, digestive CALENDAR health, and overall wellness. ANISHNAABE DENTAL OUTREACH
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
2025 TRIBAL COUNCIL Robert “RD” Curtis, Jr, President Everett Ekdahl, Jr, Vice President Sam Loonsfoot, Secretary Elizabeth “Liz” Julio, Asst. Secretary Theodore "Austin" Ayres, Treasurer Doreen G. Blaker Sue Ellen “Suzie” Elmblad Dale Goodreau Jeremy T. Hebert Rodney Loonsfoot Tony Loonsfoot Toni J. Minton
Fish and Game Meats: Our community has always relied on fish such as walleye, trout, and salmon, as well as game meats like venison. These foods are rich in lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that promote heart and brain health. Berries: Blueberries, blackberries, and other native berries are a vital part of our diet. They are high in vitamins and antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support overall immune health. Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener harvested by our community, maple syrup is not only a delicious treat but also rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, and manganese, which contribute to bone and metabolic health.