School of Law's Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative and USDA Collaborate

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IFAI Director Erin Parker looks forward to building on prior partnerships with the USDA.

The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at the U of A School of Law is participating in a new U.S. Department of Agriculture Indigenous Food Sovereignty Initiative. This historic collaboration supports the restoration of traditional Indigenous foodways, empowers Indigenous agricultural economies and seeks to improve health outcomes through Indigenous nutrition.

USDA selected the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative to collaborate on the Government Empowerment: Self-Governance/Co-Management project due to IFAI's reputation as the leading research and policy expert regarding Indigenous food and agriculture.

"Agriculture and foodways play a fundamental role in the health of Native communities, and we are eager to work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in exploring policy pathways that facilitate more USDA acknowledgment of tribal sovereignty in food systems," said Erin Parker, director of Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative. "This also provides the opportunity to foster additional respect from all federal agencies for the work of tribal governments in doing what they have done from time immemorial — feeding their people."

The new project's goals include aiding USDA in fully incorporating the ideals of tribal self-determination by providing technical assistance and reporting on legislative and regulatory edits to support tribal self-determination's comprehensive incorporation throughout USDA food programs.

About IFAI: The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative was created to enhance the health and wellness of tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development and cultural food traditions. The team provides strategic legal analysis, policy research and educational resources to empower Indian Country through food sovereignty, agriculture and economic development.

About the School of Law: The School of Law offers a competitive J.D. as well as an advanced LL.M. program, which are taught by nationally recognized faculty. The school offers unique opportunities for students to participate in pro bono work, externships, live client clinics, competitions, and food and agriculture initiatives. The school strives to identify, discuss, and challenge issues of race, color, ethnicity, and the impact(s) they have on students, faculty, and staff members in an effort to achieve a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community. From admitting the Six Pioneers who were the first African American students to attend law school in the South without a court order to graduating governors, judges, prosecutors, and faculty who went on to become President of the United States and Secretary of State, the law school has a rich history and culture. Follows us at @uarklaw.