Resources for Supporting Indigenous Peoples
“A painting representing various Indigenous cultures, made by Kelsi Bartake, Jordan Raymond and grade 12 students, Bethlehem Catholic High School, Saskatoon, SK” Click image for source.
I live in Toronto, which is the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples. Today, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people continue to live on this land and throughout Canada. Our society rarely acknowledges, protects, or elevates the voices of these peoples.
According to True North Aid, over 60% of children living in northern Indigenous communities live below the poverty line and almost 20% do not have access to clean drinking water. This is a circumstance that sadly reverberates throughout much of Canada. The ongoing mistreatment of Canada’s First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples demands that we stand up and support them in the ways that they ask. I am aware that, despite my privilege as a white woman, I have fallen short in many ways in acting for Indigenous people. I am trying to commit more time, money, and action in support of Indigenous communities.
I invite you to join me, and if you have any information, including ways to help, please contact me. Likewise, if you have corrections or education to share with me to improve the way I am showing up, please contact me.
Here are some resources I hope you find useful in this path:
Educational Resources
Indigenous Canada: The Free Online Course from University of Alberta
This course is completely free, unless you want a certificate (which you can get with a small fee). According to the course description, “From an Indigenous perspective, this course explores key issues facing Indigenous peoples today from a historical and critical perspective highlighting national and local Indigenous-settler relations.” The course subjects include Indigenous political activism, contemporary Indigenous life, art and its expressions, and more. It is designed to open your eyes to the historical and modern practices and struggles of Canadian Indigenous peoples.
Whose Land
As you probably know from your yoga practice, the first step on a journey of healing is often awareness. It is important to acknowledge what land we are on. Whose Land is a website and app where you can learn about where you are, the relevant treaties and agreements, and the communities themselves. Try to apply this knowledge to all places you visit in Canada: get curious about whose land you’re visiting. It’s a small step, but knowing and acknowledging whose land you’re on can validate their experiences and connect you with them in a more meaningful way.
Not-For-Profits & Charitable Organizations
The Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Foundation
Before his death, Gord Downie made moves to create reconciliation and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This foundation is continuing that legacy through educational and cultural programming, as well as initiatives that improve lives of Indigenous youth. They offer a variety of ways to get involved including concerts, film presentations, books, guest speakers, and more.
I Love First Peoples
I Love First Peoples “empowers Indigenous children and youth to succeed through education and the motivation to stay in school.” Their mama-and-baby, anti-bullying, and entrepreneurship programs give people the tools they need to empower their own lives. Donate, or get involved with their Friendship Box program which sends children toys and tools to celebrate their education!
Indian Residential School Survivor Society (IRSSS)
In their more than 25 years of operation, IRSSS has evolved from from focusing solely on assisting survivors in the litigation process regarding the residential schools to holistically improving the lives of survivors, their families, and those who are suffering from the effects of intergenerational trauma. They also work with partner organizations to maximize their impact.
RAVEN (Respective Aboriginal Values and Environmental Needs)
Indigenous peoples in Canada are disproportionately vulnerable to the effects of climate change. RAVEN fights for environmental and legal justice for Indigenous by carefully selecting campaigns, allying with movement leaders and organizations, fundraising, and engaging relevant business to take affirmative action. RAVEN is on the front line of protecting against pipelines, land degradation and sovereignty. According to their site, RAVEN’s support also means that Indigenous nations do not have to divert funds away from critical community resources like housing, addiction services, infrastructure and health care.
Social Media
An easy way to start educating yourself on Indigenous culture could be by following Indigenous people, or relevant hashtags online. Here are some hashtags and people I follow on Instagram.
#idlenomore
#WetsuwetenStrong
#nomorestolensisters
#decolonize
Buy from Indigenous-Owned Companies
It’s no secret that Turtle Island is home to incredible Indigenous creators. When looking to buy for yourself or gifts for others this year, consider committing to buying from 100% Indigenous-owned companies. Could you even start a group effort with family members over your holidays? ‘All gift exchanges must come from Indigenous-owned companies,’ for example. Here, I’m featuring 3 incredible companies, but for a very thorough list of art, apparel, food, botanicals and beauty companies, please visit the Indigenous Arts Collective of Canada at PassTheFeather.Org
Hinaani
Hinaani is a cool streetwear brand catering to all genders.
Conscious beauty with biodegradable packaging and sustainably sourced ingredients
Stunning Indigenous beauty brand carrying bath bombs, incense, incense holders, and more