Ideas Bringing a farm — and its philosophy — back to life
Dec 10, 2025
Julian Napoleon, a Cree and Ukrainian farmer, founded Amisk Farm to revitalize community food sovereignty. With a mission to feed over 300 Indigenous households, he discusses the challenges of high food prices and supply vulnerability. Art Napoleon, a former chief and musician, shares insights on cultural practices and the importance of language in communal living. They explore traditional farming methods, the impact of hydroelectric dams, and a vision for a sustainable future, emphasizing the joy of community and the deep connection to the land.
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Building Home With Hands And Community
- Julian started living in a canvas tent and cleared land with hand tools to build a house and farm.
- Elders silently joined him the first day, then the crew formed and they celebrated finishing the roof together.
Farming As Food Security And Culture
- Julian links farming to food security and cultural stability based on his childhood food insecurity.
- The farm distributed food to over 300 Indigenous households and trained 20+ Indigenous farm trainees.
Sharing With The Beaver Neighbors
- Julian recounts beavers stealing kale and stockpiling 500 plants at their lodge.
- He balances deterrence with respect, admitting to trapping some and trying to leave food for them.
