REFS Reflections : Mekko Tyner, J.D.
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EmailMeet Mekko Tyner, the Dean of Academic Affairs at the College of Muscogee Nation, and a member of Racial Equity in the Food Systems workgroup.
Mekko Tyner is the Dean of Academic Affairs at the College of Muscogee Nation. He has been a member of the Racial Equity in the Food Systems (REFS) workgroup since 2020. Learn more about his background and perspective in this reflective Q&A!
What is a moment in life that shaped your perspective on and approach to food systems?
When I was a boy, we would travel to my grandparents’ home in Dewey, Oklahoma to harvest our corn during July. We utilized our corn in our ceremonies, and for food. After picking the corn we would process it into different dishes. We would preserve and freeze for the upcoming year. The tastes of the corn is unique.
How do you practice race equity-centered food systems leadership?
Mutual respect and learning about others.
What is your personal challenge in race equity-centered work?
The state of Oklahoma does not like talking about race equity. It has become a challenge to partner with others in the state.
What hard question do we need to ask ourselves about food systems leadership and transformation?
What do we want to accomplish in the short term, and long term? What are we doing to accomplish these goals?
How do we bridge “gaps” between and among worldviews through language and action?
We must sit down and learn about each other. The best place is at a dinner table and share our food.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Never give up.
