I was inspired awhile back from a show I saw called Loving Spoonfuls.

On one of their first few episodes there was a Cree lady that was cooking native foods. This was the first time that I have ever seen a native person on a show such as this.

She talked about how she went to an international food competition in Japan. Their were people from all over the world. She spoke of how, “ when you are a First Nations person you automatically put yourself down”, and she felt that she could not compare to the rest of the people at the competition.

She was wrong though because she won a medal for cooking her recipe on bannock. This was something to be proud of , not only for her but other native people like myself.

One thing that I would really like to see as a result of shows like this would be for a Native fast-food restaurant and/or a gourmet Native restaurant.

Don’t laugh, I know if I had the money right now I would try to pursue something like this.

I myself am very limited in my knowledge of Native foods. Bannock, different types of salmon and blackberry dishes are the only Native foods that I can think of.

Another thing that would really kick off in Greater Victoria would be to offer Native medicinal herbs in the future establishment. There are a growing number of health conscious people in Victoria including our tourists such as Australians, so I feel that this would be very popular.

Some restaurants have a very pleasant atmosphere.

When you enter you are almost hypnotized by the beautiful artwork on display. Aspiring artists supply their work on a regular basis to give them exposure. This greatly benefits both parties.

Another interesting idea would be to have local dancers and singers for weekly entertainment. Not only traditional but modern as well.

Some obstacles that could stand in the way of anyone trying to pursue this would be legal issues and conflicts between bands with differences to “their” traditional ways. If bands were to use their food fish or any other supplies from native land, I don’t know if they would be legally allowed to use for a profit..

To me this seems like a win, win situation. It would build self esteem, help employ many Natives and possibly even help in the tourism industry.

I hope this letter inspires someone in case I never have the opportunity myself.

Just remember who gave you the idea and invite me to the grand opening. (see recipe that inspired me and won in the international food competition following page)

Lorraine Trach

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