How to Help Indigenous Communities in Your Area

“I acknowledge that I am a settler. I stand in solidarity with the Indigenous Communities of the land now called, Canada. I recognize my role as an individual in the work of reconciliation with Indigenous People. I commit to doing the work and learning more.” — On Canada Project

This past week, the remains of 215 children have been discovered at a residential school site in Kamloops, British Columbia.

When the news broke, it shook me. Hard. I had to read the headlines several times.

But . . . Despite my initial shock, the articles rang terribly true.

And the worst part is, atrocities like this still happen to Indigenous People today.

In Nova Scotia, just last summer and fall, non-Indigenous fishermen destroyed Mi’kmaq fishing property and livelihoods.

Despite being one of the most water-rich nations in the world, the Canadian government has failed to provide First Nations communities with clean drinking water.

And let’s not forget about the continuously rising number of missing and murdered Indigenous girls and women.

Feeling uncomfortable?

Good.

We settlers must take responsibility for the role we play in Canada’s colonization.

The best way to do this is simple.

Learn the truth.

Here’s how.

 

Read About Indigenous Communities

The number of fantastic indigenous authors out there is incredible!

So show your support. Choose a few great reads from the many lists available online.

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Check out CBC’s list of 35 books to read during National Indigenous History Month.

With Raven Reads, you get indigenous books delivered right to your door every month.

I recently purchased, From the Ashes: My Story of Being Metis, Homeless, and Finding My Way by, Jesse Thistle. I also grabbed Five Little Indians: A Novel by, Michelle Good. 

I’ll discuss both on my Recommended Reads, so stay tuned!

Volunteer

Becoming a volunteer is the perfect way to show your support for Indigenous communities.

And you’re in luck.

Many organizations across Canada offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities.

Here are a few examples:

True North Aid is dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities throughout Northern Canada.

On Canada Project formed at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. This organization aims to educate people about social inequities.

First Nations Child & Family Caring Society works to ensure the safety and wellbeing of First Nations youth across Canada.

Listen & Learn

The government of Canada needs to step up. Flying the flag at half-mast just isn’t enough to make up for thousands of stolen and murdered children.

So if there’s anything you can learn from this it’s not to bury your head in the sand.

Acknowledge these horrible crimes.

Listen, learn, and don’t rely on Indigenous People to do the work for you.

We can do so much better than that.

Hey friends, it’s time to get involved! If you know of any great resources that I missed, please share them in the comments. I know I still have a lot to learn and appreciate the constructive dialogue that comes my way.