Left: an array of purple and blue flint corn. Right: a bowl full of wild rice.
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Indigenous Foodways

In the fall, harvesting camps are prominent in most tribal communities in the Midwest. Wild rice, fish, and various strains of indigenous corn have sustained communities throughout the region for generations. Harvesting, and the multiple steps involved in processing, involve tedious work along with traditional environmental knowledge.

Participants will assist the Bizhiki Culture and Dance Company in the processing of flint corn (hominy), the parching, dancing, winnowing and cooking of wild rice (manoomin), and they will learn how fish is filleted. Attendees can also enjoy a few Indigenous winter games. This is an outdoor event, so dress accordingly.

Please NOTE: Due to unforeseen circumstances, the previously scheduled food truck is unable to be part of this event. We apologize for the inconvenience.

A group of people playing a game involving a small ball and long rackets with a netted cup on the end.

Contact

For further information on this event, contact Monica M. Scott at or (217) 300-6213.

All are welcome. To request disability-related accommodations for this event, please contact Brian Cudiamat at or (217) 244-5586.