Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance (NAFSA), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring Indigenous food systems that support Indigenous self-determination, wellness, cultures, values, communities, economies, languages, and families, announces the resignation of Lilian Hill. Lilian Hill resigned as the esteemed Executive Director of NAFSA on Monday, July 10, 2023.

Lilian Hill has been an instrumental leader within NAFSA and the Native American Food Sovereignty movement, making significant contributions and leaving a lasting impact during her tenure. The organization deeply values her dedication and the positive relationships she built with staff and stakeholders.

During this period of transition, NAFSA remains steadfast in its commitment to fulfilling its mission and serving the communities it supports. To facilitate this transition, NAFSA is pleased to announce the appointment of Shiloh Maples as the Interim Executive Director. Shiloh is an Anishinaabe community organizer, seed keeper, and storyteller. 

Shiloh has a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan, where she specialized in community organizing and social change movements. She has completed certificate programs in organic farming and permaculture design. During her time as a student, Shiloh recognized the powerful potential of food systems to heal and transform communities. Since then, Shiloh has been committed to serving the Indigenous food sovereignty movement and revitalizing her own ancestral foodways. 

For nearly a decade, Shiloh worked within Detroit’s Indigenous community to create a food sovereignty initiative that increased access to ancestral foods, offered culturally-based nutrition education, and created opportunities for the community to practice their cultural foodways in the urban landscape.

Collaborating closely with the board of directors and the dedicated staff, Shiloh will work diligently to navigate NAFSA through this transition and develop interim solutions that will pave the way for a strong future.

NAFSA expresses its sincere appreciation for the ongoing support and understanding of stakeholders during this transitional period.

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