Moon Phases
When building Indigenous community food systems, Tribal communities may want to have discussions on what traditions and values guide this planning. It is helpful to have these discussions early, as this can help provide structure to programming and any outreach activities. For the Menominee Food Sovereignty project, planners were mindful of these systems and became more intentional about planning as work progressed. Indigenous planning systems vary by region, location, and Tribal community, and this eFieldbook is mindful of the diversity throughout Turtle Island. For Menominee, there are multiple systems that guide planning. These systems are related to each other and not one system stands alone. Some are specific to the Menominee people and others have been adapted to fit the community. Information here is purposely vague and it is hoped that what is shared sparks local discussion about ways you can integrate culture into food sovereignty efforts. The different moon phases hold knowledge about weather, harvesting, hunting, gathering, and growing food. The Menominee people follow thirteen moon phases and the name for each moon phase is an indicator of either the weather or how we should be living. Programs on the reservation are mindful of the moon phases and refer to them when planning community events and other types of activities. Connecting thoughtfully to the moon phases has Indigenized local work and strengthened connections to Menominee ways of knowing. Like the seasons, the moon phases connect and hold knowledge about the past, are applicable to today, and help with future planning. Sūpomāhkwa n- kēsoq . This is the sugaring moon. During this moon, sugar maple trees are tapped, and the sap is processed into syrup and sugar. Storytelling, feasts, and weather are integral to the sugaring moon. Community groups provide opportunities to learn and participate. Pahkwan- kēsoq . This is the budding moon. During this moon, the plants and trees begin blooming. Spring foods that are harvested include wild onions and fiddlehead ferns. This is also a time to prepare home gardens, start seeds, and begin garden education. At a͞ ehemen- kēsoq . This is the strawberry moon. Wild strawberries are found in different locations throughout the reservation. Wild strawberries, their leaves, and their flowers are an incredible source of nutrition. These are harvested responsibly, with wild strawberries left for animals and regeneration for the next growing season. Home and community gardens are planted during this moon. Āpaehtaw - nēpen - kēsoq . This is the half summer moon. Wild foods harvested include raspberries and black cap raspberries. Community and home gardens are well into growing, and early harvests may include radishes, beets, onions, and herbs. Hot days and summer storms during this moon help with foods harvested in the next moon. Mēn - kēsoq . This is the blueberry moon. Wild blueberries are ready for harvest. Blackberries are ready for harvesting, as well. Berry picking is family time, with families packing lunches and picking berries all day. Wild ginseng is also beginning to be harvested during this moon. Harvesting is done responsibly with berries
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