As the winter solstice approaches, we find ourselves in the season of rest and reflection—a time to pause, take stock, and prepare for the work ahead. At NAFSA, this moment feels particularly significant as we close a year of growth and transformation.
This year, we welcomed 11 new staff and Leadership Council (LC) members in Quarter 4 alone, nearly doubling our team. Bringing this many talented, passionate people together feels a bit like adding more family members to a holiday meal—you need a bigger table, but the conversations and collaboration are worth it. These new faces have already brought fresh energy and perspective to NAFSA, strengthening our ability to serve and uplift Indigenous communities.
As a member of the Sitka Tribe of Alaska (Tlingit), I see the solstice as a reminder of how balance and preparation can guide us. It’s a time to honor the cycles of nature, to rest, and to build strength for the seasons to come. Whether we celebrate traditional foodways or advance programs, our work remains grounded in the values that tie us all together.
As we enter the new year, we’re excited to build on the progress we’ve made in 2024. This past year has been one of meaningful planning, team building, and expanding our capacity to support Indigenous food sovereignty. We’re not just closing this chapter—we’re opening the next one with clarity, focus, and maybe even a little humor. After all, if the sun can take a breather, so can we.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Your support, dedication, and partnership have made this progress possible. Here’s to stepping into 2025 with renewed energy, a strong foundation, and maybe a little more light each day.
In gratitude,
Ted Wright
Executive Director, NAFSA
About NAFSA
The Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance (NAFSA) is dedicated to restoring the Indigenous food systems that support Indigenous self-determination, wellness, cultures, values, communities, economies, languages, families, and rebuilding relationships with the land, water, plants and animals that sustain us.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Marian Bitsui, Director of Communications
marian@nativefoodalliance.org
