First Nations seafood security and food sovereignty in Greater Nanaimo, Snuneymuxw Territory, Vancouver Island: A research feasibility study

Abstract

This preliminary background study explores coastal First Nations’ food security, emphasizing Pacific Northwest Coast and Salish Sea food systems broadly and Snuneymuxw (Nanaimo) territory, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, in particular. The report has three parts: (a) an introduction to (sea)food security discourse, where Aboriginal food insecurity is connected to issues of sovereignty and colonization; (b) an overview of Snuneymuxw (Nanaimo) traditional economy, highlighting post-1800 settler population growth and concomitant Snuneymuxw maritime heritage landscape destruction; and (c) an extensive bibliography of coastal food security and sovereignty resources emphasizing Canada, British Columbia, Vancouver Island, and the Nanaimo region. Food insecurity is a serious problem for all Salish Sea Nations, including the Snuneymuxw. A highly complex issue with major implications for Aboriginal health and wellbeing, there is no single "solution." Rather, radical change is necessary. Minimally, this involves confronting and overcoming colonialism, capitalism, and the ideology of growth, development, and progress.