Cooking classes as a tool for decolonization
In collaboration with the organization YQR reconciliation and the Regina Public Library, it offers online cooking classes as part of the series Decolonize YQR.
It builds bridges between Indigenous people living in the community and non-Indigenous people
explains the baker.
” There are so many misconceptions and prejudices that are not true. I would like to be able to erase them, to make sure that knowledge can be shared and that we can build an understanding that does not exist at the moment. »
Last Tuesday, Jodi Robson’s virtual cooking class allowed her to present a traditional Métis dish: dumpling soup.
For Jodi Robson, it is important that her recipe is as close as possible to that cooked traditionally.
I don’t like adding spices to it because it wouldn’t be the comfort food I know anymore
she explains.
She also remembers that her grandmother served it to her guests on New Year’s Day. This dish was a way for them to warm up on cold winter days.
This soup offers the opportunity to meet during the harsh months of the cold season, to visit each other and to welcome the new year in a positive way.
adds Jodi Robson.
Workshop participants received a list of ingredients in advance to help them follow the steps during preparation.
While cooking the soup, Jodi Robson told them stories surrounding this dish and welcomed questions from attendees
I think such events are important because they give the chance to ask questions in an environment where people feel comfortable. They won’t be judged, there’s no stupid questions, no one will be upset
says the facilitator.
And even though it’s a really difficult subject for aboriginal people, that’s fine. I will answer the question to the best of my knowledge.
Jodi Robson is best known for her appearance on the third season of CBC’s Great Canadian Baking Show.
Photo: Radio-Canada / Richard Agecoutay
For Jodi Robson, these events also build communities.
Some people register for all the workshops and it gives the impression that we are building a virtual family
she adds, noting that many participants are not Aboriginal.
For Regina Public Library Events Coordinator Courtney Bates-Hardey, these workshops are a real opportunity to participate in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and to learn more about the actions that can be taken
.
The workshops vary from month to month, but they all focus on food, history and cultural events.
Next month, Elder Harry Francis will talk about what it was like growing up on a reservation in the 1950s and 1960s. He will also explain what his role as a leader and healer entails.
With information from Jennifer Francis
