06/18/2023
Congratulations
Congratulations to Sean Sherman, chef, cookbook author, and founder of North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NATIFS), on being named the recipient of the prestigious Julia Child Award for 2023. As the first Native American chef to receive this award, Sherman's impact on the culinary world is a testament to his passion, skill, and commitment to Indigenous food systems.
As a member of the Oglala Lakota tribe, Sherman has devoted his career to promoting Indigenous cuisine and educating the public about the historic and cultural significance of Native foods. His groundbreaking work with NATIFS has inspired a new generation of Indigenous chefs and culinary entrepreneurs, creating a vibrant, community-driven food movement that honors tradition while pushing the boundaries of contemporary cuisine.
Through his cookbook, "The Sioux Chef's Indigenous Kitchen," Sherman has brought Indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques to a wider audience, encouraging home chefs to incorporate Native foods into their own kitchens. His unwavering activism and advocacy for Indigenous food sovereignty have also helped to challenge dominant perceptions of "American" cuisine, highlighting the rich diversity and complexity of the culinary traditions that have shaped this country.
The Julia Child Award, along with the accompanying $50,000 grant from the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, recognizes Sherman's achievements and supports his ongoing work with NATIFS and the Indigenous Food Lab. The award ceremony on October 24th will be a landmark event, celebrating Sherman's remarkable contributions to the culinary world and his tireless dedication to Indigenous food systems.
We applaud Sean Sherman for his groundbreaking work, and we look forward to seeing his continued impact on the world of indigenous food sovereignty and culture. Congratulations, Chef!
By John Gonzalez
Standing Bear Network
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[Image Description-
A Photo by Nancy Bundt of Sean Sherman wearing a long braid and black “DECOLONIZE” t-shirt , entitled, “The Sioux Chef's Indigenous Kitchen” by John Gonzalez. -End ID]
