Developing Tribal Level Policy Options for Improving Access to Healthy Eating within Seven NC Tribes (2011)
Undergraduates: Leticia Brandon, Ramachandran G Vu M, Evenson K, Bell R, Ries A
Faculty Advisor: Sheila Fleischhacker
Department: International & Area Studies
Changing the food environment is a promising strategy for addressing American Indian diet-related health disparities. To accelerate solution-oriented strategies for tribal-level action, we developed seven healthy eating policy toolkits, tailored specifically for Coharie Tribe, Haliwa-Saponi Indian Tribe, Lumbee Tribe, Occaneechi Band of Saponi Nation, Meherrin Indian Tribe, Sappony, and Waccamaw Siouan Tribe. Using community-based participatory research, each toolkit’s format and content was informed by modified Talking Circles (i.e., facilitated group discussions informed by American Indian tradition) (n=7, 33 participants) and key informant interviews (n=40). Health-related policies and programs existing at the tribal level were compiled through a systematic website review of > 500 American Indian Tribes and Organizations. Each toolkit integrated Native traditions to provide research on and recommendations for moving forward tribally initiated and implemented healthy eating initiatives. Policy options common to all seven toolkits were tribally-owned and operated community gardens and farmers’ markets, along with incorporating youth and elder programs to pass down traditional food preparation and preservation methods. Additional technical assistance was provided on how to prioritize policies and programs, as well as successfully implement changes at the tribal level,pulling together resources available at the federal, state, county, local, and university levels. Research and recommendations featured in the toolkit were presented at tribal council meetings. Each tribe will receive 2 copies of their policy toolkit. The innovative toolkit development and dissemination processes successfully engaged tribal leaders and fostered the translation of culturally appropriate strategies for American Indian tribal leadership to address diet-related health disparities.