HOW TO BE A BETTER ALLY:

**WRITTEN BY MORGAN TSETTA (@porterfieldlol on Tiktok/Twitter, @morgantsettafilms on IG). IF YOU INTEND ON RESHARING OR BENEFITTING FROM THIS DOCUMENT, CONSIDER DONATING TO THEIR PAYPAL https://www.paypal.me/MorganTsetta **

@indigenousmotherhood on IG:

ASK YOURSELF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

AM I BEING AN ALLY TO MASK PERSONAL GUILT/SHAME CAUSED BY MY BLOODLINE’S ACTIONS?

AM I BEING AN ALLY  FOR PERSONAL GAIN?

AM I ONLY AN ALLY WITH  CERTAIN PEOPLE?

DO I ROMANTICIZE INDIGENOUS PEOPLES  IN MY ALLYSHIP?

ARE MY BEHAVIOURS COMING FROM A PLACE OF AUTHENTICITY?

ARE MY BEHAVIOURS COMING FROM A PLACE OF AVOIDING MY OWN PAIN OR  FROM A PLACE OF BEING TRUTHFUL IN WHO I AM?

MENTAL HEALTH:

  • 24 Hour Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
  • First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness 24/7 Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
  • National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4411
  • Indian Residential School Survivors Society Counselling Services: https://www.irsss.ca/services/counselling
  • Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
  • Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
  • Native Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-877-209-1266
  • Strong Hearts Native Helpline (Domestic and Sexual Violence): 1-844-762-8483 https://strongheartshelpline.org/
  • Suicide Crisis Line: 1-800-784-2432
  • International Association for Suicide Prevention: http://www.iasp.info/

        INDIGENOUS ALLYSHIP GUIDE:

ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE TODAY:

  • Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commision’s Report (linked below)
  • Implement calls to action
  • Wear black or orange on July 1st in solidarity with Every Child Matters
  • Connect with your elected officials
  • Be public about your solidarity
  • Donate your money
  • Create momentum online (#SettlersTakeAction)
  • Use native-land.ca to research the traditional territory you occupy and learn more about how you can support your local Indigenous community
  • Frequently follow new Indigenous social media accounts
  • Do not demand labour from BIPOC
  • SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING MOVEMENTS:

  • STOP LINE 3:

https://www.stopline3.org/

DIVEST YOURSELF FROM BANKS FUNDING LINE 3

https://mazaskatalks.org/divestyourself

6 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU DIVEST YOUR COMMUNITY

https://mazaskatalks.org/divest-your-community/

STOPLINE3.ORG GOOGLE DOC

tinyurl.com/ResistLine3

  • RED DRESS DAY (#MMIWG2SDAY, #NOMORESTOLENSISTERS, #SAYHERNAME):

http://iwhc.ca/donations/

INDIGENOUS WOMEN’S HEALING CENTRE (DONATE)

https://mmiwhoismissing.org/

MMIWHOISMISSING, INDIGENOUS-LEAD. (RESOURCES, DONATE)

https://www.niwrc.org/

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTRE. (RESOURCES)

https://restoringawcoalition.org/

RESTORING ANCESTRAL WINDS. US & CANADA. (RESOURCES, DONATE)

*FOLLOW @MMIWHOISMISSING ON INSTAGRAM*

ARTICLES:

“Saskatchewan First Nation announces hundreds of unmarked graves found at former residential school site” (Cowessess First Nation mass grave discovery, June 23, 2021)

“The RCMP was created to control Indigenous people. Can that relationship be reset?” (How the RCMP’s efforts to protect its image in the media have provided a protective coating strong enough to withstand a history of scandals and controversies, June 15, 2019)

“Indigenous hunters are protecting animals, land and waterways” (Indigenous conservation and sustainability op-ed, September 17, 2019)

“There is a Monster Under the Ground: Commemorating the History of Arsenic Contamination at Giant Mine.” (Environmental research paper, 62 minute read. October 14, 2021)

“Missing & Murdered: The Unsolved Cases of Indigenous Women and Girls” (MMIW Report via CBC news including 307 profiles of individual cases.)

“Class action alleging RCMP discrimination in the North certified” (A federal judge has certified a $600-million class action lawsuit alleging RCMP discrimination against Indigenous people in the North. June 24, 2021)

“Why Decolonizing Education is Important” (Blog post by Reneeka Massey-Jones. 3min read. May 21, 2019)

“Vancouver returns city-owned land to Musqueam” (CBC article by Liam Britten. October 17, 2018)

“182 Unmarked Graves Discovered Near Residential School in BC’s Interior, Firs Nation Says” (The community of ?Aq'am, a member of the Ktunaxa Nation located near Cranbrook, B.C., says 182 unmarked graves were discovered using ground-penetrating radar to search a site close to the former St. Eugene's Mission School. CBC article by Alex Migdal. June 30th, 2021)

(“The Leadership of ʔaq̓am wishes to clarify information that has appeared on various social media platforms as well as national and international news regarding the discovery of 182 unmarked graves in a cemetery in the ʔaq̓am Community and near the former site of the St. Eugene Residential School and the current site of the St. Eugene Resort.”)

(“Screaming into Silence” by Cindy Blackstock. I believe those little spirits buried on the grounds of residential schools came to ensure the work gets done to end the injustices facing survivors.)

(“How to support Standing Rock and confront what it means to live on stolen land” by Berkley Carnine & Liza Minno Bloom. Longtime activists engaged in solidarity organizing with Indigenous groups offer action steps and best practices for non-Native supporters. October 13, 2016)

*FROM BRIARPATCH’S 2020 LANDBACK ISSUE:

*CONSIDER DONATING TO BRIARPATCH TO SUPPORT THIS JOURNALISM*

“I have an inalienable right to protect this land.” (Interview with Elder Jo-Ann Saddleback by Emily Riddle. 5min read. September 10, 2020)

“What is Land Back? A Settler FAQ” (Article by David Gray-Donald. 4min read. September 10, 2020)

“100 Years of Land Struggle” (Article by Mike Gouldhawke. 10min read. September 10, 2020)

“Land Back as a Social Relationship” (Article by Mike Gouldhawke. 10min read. September 10, 2020)

“Four Case Studies of Land Back in Action” (Article by Riley Yesno & Xicotencatl Maher Lopez. 9min read. September 10, 2020)

“Back 2 the Land: 2Land 2Furious” (Article by Métis In Space: Chelsea Vowel & Molly Swain. 14min read. September 10, 2020)

“mâmawiwikowin” (Article by Emily Riddle. “Sharing First Nations and Métis jurisdiction on the Prairies”. 9min read. September 10, 2020)

“Reconnecting to the spirit of the language” (Article by Lana Whiskeyjack & Kyle Napier. 10min read. September 10, 2020)

“Becoming intimate with the land” (Alex Wilson speaks to three Indigenous women hunters about patriarchy, spirituality and the joys of being on the land. 17min read. September 10, 2020)

“Sexual sovereignty” (Article by Adrienne Huard & Jacqueline Pelland. 10min read. September 10, 2020)

“This Prairie city is land too” (Article by Lindsay Nixon. 9min read. September 10, 2020)

“Land Back means protecting Black and Indigenous trans women” (Article jaye simpson. 8min read. September 10, 2020)

“Whose land is it, anyways?” (Article by Xicotencatl Maher Lopez. 9min read. September 10, 2020)

“Manufacturing Wet’suwet’en consent” (Article by Jerome Turner. 15min read. September 10, 2020)

“To Wood Buffalo National Park, with love” (Article by Chloe Dragon Smith & Robert Grandjambe. 14min read. September 10, 2020)

BOOKS BY INDIGENOUS AUTHORS:

        CHILDREN & TEENS:

  • “A Day with Yayah” by Nicola I. Campbell (Nłeʔkepmx, Syilx & Métis)

https://www.strongnations.com/store/item_display.php?i=6607

  • “Fire Keepers Daugher” by Angeline Boulley (Chippewa)

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250766571

  • “Go Show the World: A Celebration of Indigenous Heroes” by Wab Kinew (Midewin)

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/557387/go-show-the-world-by-wab-kinew-illustrated-by-joe-morse/

  • “I Am Not A Number” by Jenny Kay Dupuis (Anishinabe/Ojibway) & Kathy Kacer

https://secondstorypress.ca/kids/i-am-not-a-number

  • “Little You” by Richard Van Camp (Tłı̨chǫ Dene)

https://www.orcabook.com/Little-You-P827.aspx

  • “My Heart Fills With Happiness” by Monique Gray Smith (Cree, Lakota & Scottish)

https://www.orcabook.com/My-Heart-Fills-With-Happiness-P1085.aspx

  • “When We Were Alone” by David A. Robertson (Swampy Cree)

https://www.portageandmainpress.com/product/when-we-were-alone/

FICTION:

  • “Birdie” by Tracey Lindberg (Cree)

https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443451352/birdie/

  • “The Break” by Katherena Vermette (Métis)

https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/the-break/9781487001117-item.html

  • “Indian Horse” by Richard Wagamese (Ojibwe)

        https://milkweed.org/book/indian-horse

  • “Marrow Thieves” by Cherie Dimaline (Métis)

https://www.amazon.ca/Marrow-Thieves-Cherie-Dimaline/dp/1770864865

  • “Moon of the Crusted Snow” by Waubgeshig Rice (Anishinaabe)

https://ecwpress.com/products/moon-of-the-crusted-snow

  • “The Round House” by Louise Erdrich (Chippewa)

https://www.amazon.ca/Round-House-Novel-Louise-Erdrich/dp/0062065254

  • “Son of a Trickster”, “Trickster Drift” & “Return of the Trickster” by Eden Robinson (Haisla/Heiltsuk)

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/532532/son-of-a-trickster-by-eden-robinson/9780345810793

  • “There, There” by Tommy Orange (Cheyenne & Arapaho)

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/563403/there-there-by-tommy-orange/

  • “This Place: 150 Years Retold” by misc. Indigenous Authors

https://www.portageandmainpress.com/product/this-place/

NON-FICTION

  • “21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act” by Bob Joseph (Gayaxala)

TOPIC: Canadian & Indigenous relations & reconciliation.

https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/21-things-you-may-not/9780995266520-item.html

  •  “All Our Relations” by Tanya Talaga (Anishinaabe)

TOPIC: Indigenous Suicide awareness & racism

https://houseofanansi.com/products/all-our-relations

  • “As We Have Always Done: Indigenous Freedom through Radical Resistence” by Leanne Betasamosake Simpson (Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg)

TOPIC: Indigenous resistance.

https://www.upress.umn.edu/book-division/books/as-we-have-always-done

  • “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer (Potawatomi)

TOPIC: Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge & the teachings of the plants.

https://milkweed.org/book/braiding-sweetgrass

  • “Broken Circle” by Theodore Fontaine (Ojibwe)

TOPIC: Residential school survival.

https://www.mcnallyrobinson.com/9781926613666/theodore-fontaine/broken-circle

  • “Calling My Spirit Back” by Elaine Alec (Syilx/Secwepemc)

TOPIC: Residential schools & Indigenous wellness

https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/calling-my-spirit-back/9780228830696-item.html

  • “The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America” by Thomas King (Cherokee)

TOPIC: History from an Indigenous perspective.

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/93028/the-inconvenient-indian-by-thomas-king/9780385664226

  • “Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Issues in Canada” by Chelsea Vowel (Métis)

TOPIC: Inclusive education & Indigenous experience.

https://www.portageandmainpress.com/product/indigenous-writes/

  • “Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit: What Inuit Have Always Known to Be True” by Joe Karetak, Frank Tester & Shirley Tagalik

TOPIC: Biography/memoir. Indigenous resistance & decolonization.

https://fernwoodpublishing.ca/book/inuit-qaujimajatuqangit

  • “Mother Earth: Plants for Health & Beauty” by Carrie Armstrong (Métis)

TOPIC: Indigenous Plants, Traditions & Recipes

https://motherearthessentials.ca/collections/books/products/mother-earth-plants-for-health-beauty

  • “My Decade at Old Sun, My Lifetime of Hell” by Arthur Bear Chief

TOPIC: Residential school

https://www.aupress.ca/books/120260-my-decade-at-old-sun-my-lifetime-of-hell/

  • “No Surrender: The Land Remains Indigenous” by Sheldon Krasowski

TOPIC: Indigenous history

https://uofrpress.ca/Books/N/No-Surrender

  • “Red Skin, White Masks: Rejecting the Colonial Politics of Recognition” by Glen Sean Coulthard (Yellowknives Dene)

TOPIC: Colonization, recognition & reconciliation.

https://www.upress.umn.edu/book-division/books/red-skin-white-masks

  • “Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death and Hard Truths in a Northern City” by Tanya Talaga (Anishinaabe)

TOPIC: Racism & Indigenous rights.

https://houseofanansi.com/products/seven-fallen-feathers

  • “They Called Me Number One” by Bev Sellars (Xatsu’ll)

TOPIC: Residential schools.

https://talonbooks.com/books/they-called-me-number-one

  • “Up Ghost River” by Edmund Metatawabin (Blackfoot/Siksikáwa)

TOPIC: Residential school memoir.

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/227773/up-ghost-river-by-edmund-metatawabin--with-alexandra-shimo/

  •  “We Remember the Coming of the Whiteman” by Elizabeth Yakeleya (Dene)

TOPIC: Indigenous history

https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/we-remember-the-coming-of/9781988824246-item.html

POETRY

  • “Disintegrate/Dissociate” by Arielle Twist (Nehiyaw)

https://arsenalpulp.com/Books/D/Disintegrate-Dissociate

  • “Fireweed” by Tunchai Redvers (Dene/Métis)

https://www.amazon.ca/Fireweed-Tunchai-Redvers/dp/1928120180

  • “Injun” by Jordan Abel (Nisg̱a’a)

https://talonbooks.com/books/injun

  • “Nedi nezu (Good Medicine)” by Tenille K. Campbell (Dene/Métis)

https://arsenalpulp.com/Books/N/nedi-nezu-Good-Medicine

  • “This Would is a World” by Billy Ray Belcourt (Cree)

https://www.frontenachouse.com/product/this-wound-is-a-world/

  • “Undoing Hours” by Selina Boan (Nehiyaw)

https://alllitup.ca/books/U/Undoing-Hours

BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT:

“Aly is a Native American female artist, based in Utah, whose art features vibrant colors and indigenous styles. Aly is inspired by her own experiences, family, friends, and community.” Indigenous owned. US based.

“Beam Paints is the result of a multi-generational love of pigment, paint, colour, and innovation.” Natural paint pigments. Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“Founder Vanessa Billie started Billiee Beauty in 2019. After being a Makeup Artist for 4 years and Esthetician for 3 years Vanessa decided to create a Vegan, Cruelty Free, and Mineral Infused cosmetic line! The products are high quality, non-toxic, and perfect for all skin types!” Indigenous owned. US based.

“There is nothing better than waking up in the morning with a cup of fresh roasted coffee that is making a difference.” Portion of the proceeds go to providing water filters to First Nations without clean drinking water. Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“Blended Girl, originally from LeChee Arizona was raised by her grandparents and two aunts. Shí-Fawn fell in love with makeup in her early 20's & her passion grew from there.” Indigenous owned. US based.

“Born in the North is the design duo consisting of twin brothers Christopher and Gregory Mitchell. They are multidisciplinary artists whose work is inspired by their Mi’kmaq ancestry and Canadian upbringing.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“Catherine Blackburn was born in Patuanak Saskatchewan, of Dene and European ancestry and is a member of the English River First Nation. She is a multidisciplinary artist and jeweller, whose common themes address Canada's colonial past that are often prompted by personal narratives.” Indigenous artwork. US based.

“Cheekbone Beauty is an Indigenous-owned and founded, digitally-native, Canadian cosmetics company established in 2016 by Jennifer Harper. Based out of St. Catharines, Ontario, Cheekbone Beauty is known for creating high quality, cruelty-free beauty products such as liquid lipsticks and complexion products including contour and highlight palettes.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“We wanted to create a clothing brand that empowers current and future generations to proudly represent their indigeneity, for individuals wanted to decolonize spaces, and to encourage those to support and create Indigenous owned and operated businesses.” Indigenous owned & operated streetwear brand based in Vancouver, BC.

“Eighth Generation is a Seattle based art and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe.” U.S. based.

“Small batch. Indigenous made. Reimagining the the pottery and bone tool patterns of my ancestors for modern home decor.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“Created to empower indigenous beauty and strength.” Indigenous owned & operated. Canada based.

“Iron Dog Books is an Indigenous-owned bookshop and booktruck dedicated to bringing low cost reading to Səl̓ilwətaɁɬ, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm territories (metro Vancouver).” Based in Vancouver, BC Canada.

“As an Indigenous-owned company, our vision is to build a vibrant, global brand that makes a significant impact in Indigenous communities.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“At Massy Books we see every book as treasure waiting to be discovered. From rare, off-beat and out-of-print books to familiar titles and current-day best sellers, we scour the internet and places near and far knowing that the books we source have a perfect match in a reader or collector who is as passionate about books as we are!” 100% Indigenous-owned. Online and in-store in Chinatown, Vancouver, BC.

“With mobilize I hope to be able to create street style which brings representation for indigenous peoples, empowers, educate, elevates, and helps others find identity.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“We are Moonstone Creation, an Indigenous-owned and family-run business located in Calgary's Inglewood district. We create handmade traditional art right in-store and are proud to represent over 60 Indigenous makers and artisans from across Turtle Island.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“A Canadian indigenous-owned company, Mother Earth Essentials creates luxurious bath & beauty products from natural ingredients and traditional recipes.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“I'm inspired by the way us natives like to make each other laugh, tease each other and find lightheartedness even in heavy times. In this pandemic life I hope my work can make you laugh!” Indigenous owned & operated. Canada based.

“100% of the art featured on Native Northwest products is designed by Indigenous artists.” Native American wholesale shop. US & Canada website available.

Our Indigenous Traditional handcrafted clothing and accessories. Indigenous owned. US based.

“OXDX Clothing is a Native American owned business based out of Tempe, Arizona that specializes in graphic art, screen printed apparel, and cut'n'sew clothing.” Indigenous owned. US based.

“We are an indigenous (kichwa) family owned store based in Toronto, connecting indigenous arts and artists from North and South America.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“The written word, carried from past into the present, can play an important role in understanding the relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people around the world. With our seasonal subscription boxes — available for both for adults and children — we aim to inspire and educate, while creating a safe space for dialogue.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

Reclaim Your Power. Strong Resilient Indigenous. From Akwesasne Mohawk Territory. Indigenous owned. US & Canada shop available.

Their mission is to increase prosocial behaviour, reduce Indigenous youth incarceration rates in Manitoba, and advocate for Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action for Justice #25 – 42 by offering Indigenized streetwear and accessories. Indigenous owned. Canada based.

From Nehiyaw fashion designer, graphic designer & photographer. Summer 2021 release just dropped. Canada based.

“All of our products are proudly indigenous made. We are inspired by our native legends and ingredients and hoping that you'll discover their beauty.” Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“SheNative exists to instill inner strength and unwavering confidence in all women, using teachings that come from Indigenous nationhood. From our perspective, nationhood is knowing who you are and where you come from.” Indigenouse owned. Canada based.

“An Indigenous brand that hand-crafts wellness and self-care products inspired by our culture and traditions.” Indigenous owned & operated. Canada based.

“Honouring cultural plant knowledge, Indigenous science and self-care rituals, Sḵwálwen (squall - win) offers skincare experiences grounded in the natural world. Founded by ethnobotanist Leigh Joseph of Squamish First Nation, this is plant medicine for skin and spirit.” Indigenous owned & operated. Canada based.

“Born in March 2006 with Aboriginal roots, we sell Fair Trade Certified and Certified Organic quality coffee in over 600 locations across Canada. Our blends, named after the animals of the Northwest, range from light to dark roast and all impress with quality.” Coffee beans and coffee pods available. Indigenous owned. Canada based (free shipping over $100)

“We are an Indigenous owned and operated online Book and Gift store, as well as a Publishing house. We work hard to provide authentic books and gifts in our online store.” Indigenous owned. Nanaimo, BC Canada based.

“Tania Larsson uses materials that come from the land of the Canadian Arctic.  She operates a jewellery studio in Yellowknife where she designs and hand fabricates jewellery.” Subscribe to newsletter for updated releases. Indigenous owned. Canada based.

“The Beads Knees is Mel Beaulieu, a Two Spirit, Mi’kmaq (Metepenagiag First Nation) beadwork artist based in Fredericton, New Brunswick.” Check for restocks. Canada based.

“Two Native American guys trying to fill a hole in the market that is missing the voice of the people. Our mission is to teach the youth the importance of embracing culture and history while building a Native American clothing company.” Indigenous owned. US based.

“We want you to feel real deadly proud wearing the Rez Lifestyle line. And you know what, this stuff is not only for you cousins, but for our Allies as well. We can all rock this stuff to show support.” 100% Indigenous owned and operated. Canada based.

“A brand that specializes in clothing design and content to increase the visibility of Indigenous peoples.” Indigenous owned & operated, U.S. based.

“For over twenty years, The Yukon Soaps Company has been supporting economic diversification, authentic relationships with customers, and bringing life to the heart of the Yukon.” Indigenous owned & operated. Canada based.

*https://www.reddit.com/r/Coffee/comments/jxvc9x/list_of_first_nationsindigenous_owned_roasters/ (LIST OF ADDITIONAL INDIGENOUS COFFEE BUSINESSES)

**https://www.facebook.com/groups/indigenouswomenholidaymarket/?ref=share (PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP FOR INDIGENOUS ARTISTS & BUSINESSES)

DONATION LINKS:

LEGACY OF HOPE

(From their site: “A national Indigenous charitable organization with the mandate to educate and create awareness and understanding about the Residential School System.”)

INDIAN RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL SURVIVORS SOCIETY

(From their site: “To assist First Nation Peoples in British Columbia to recognize and be holistically empowered from the primary and generational effect of the Residential Schools by supporting research, education, awareness, partnerships, and advocating for justice and healing.”)

NEW KAMLOOPS ABORIGINAL FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY CENTER

(Donate to support a new Friendship Centre for the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society. From their campaign: “KAFS is in dire need of a new building.  Currently, the existing building infrastructure has aged poorly and is being used beyond the end of it’s lifecycle.  In addition, the centre is unable to adapt and expand programs in response to the needs of the local urban Aboriginal community.”)

BRAIDED WARRIORS (IG) FUND

(Support Braided Warriors/IG: @braidedwarriors. From their campaign: “The Braided Warriors is a group of Indigenous youth warriors in səl ̓ ilw̓ ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam) territories defending the land and the people from capitalist colonial violence and working closely with Tiny House Warriors.”)

SUPPORT THE DOWNIE WENJACK FUND

(From their site: “Your donation contributes to reconciliation in Canada by supporting the development of resources for DWF programs such as Legacy Spaces, Legacy Schools, reconciliACTIONs and events that serve to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities together.”)

FAIRY CREEK BLOCKADE DEFENSE FUND

(Defence of Indigenous Land BIPOC fund - Fairy Creek. From their campaign:  “The intention behind this fundraiser is to support Indigenous land defenders in whatever ways are needed to support their frontline work.”)

SUPPORT THE VICTIMS OF THE DEHCHO FLOODING

(From my home territory. Flood relief for Fort Simpson and Jean Marie River First Nation. The spring breakup this year devastated these largely Indigenous communities, leveling houses and displacing hundreds of people. From their campaign: “Both communities are facing significant personal and community losses. They need help to rebuild. Please make a donation.”)

SUPPORT THE FAMILY OF EISHA HUDSON

(Justice for Eisha Hudson. From their campaign: “My daughter was a 16-year-old Indigenous girl who was murdered by a Winnipeg police officer on April 8, 2020. We are currently seeking financial support towards our legal funds following the recent decision by the Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) in the murder of my daughter by a Winnipeg Police officer.”)

DONATE TO NATION SKATE YOUTH

(Non-profit. From their site: “Empowering Indigenous youth to embrace their right to self-determination through the positive impact of skateboarding.”)

ORGANIZED BY SHINA NOVA TO PURCHASE BIKES FOR ARCTIC YOUTH

(BIKE PROJECT for the children of Puvirnituq campaign by Shina Nova to assist in supplying the children of her community with bikes, where not many children have access to bicycles due to high import costs in Northern Canada.)

DONATE TO INDIGENOUS WOMEN OUTDOORS

(From the site: “Our mission is to hold space for Indigenous women to come together and feel safe on the land.” E-transfer available. Also seeking new or lightly used gear donations in Vancouver, please contact to donate.)

HELPING OUR FRIENDS IN LYTTON

(From the campaign: “Savage Society and our friends at 2 Rivers Remix Society is starting this fundraiser on behalf of folks in Lytton, BC, our friends, family, 2 legged and 4 legged, Elders and young ones, who have had to flee their homes and are experiencing much loss.”)

LOVE FOR LYTTON

(From the campaign: “Lytton is a beautiful town located in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia. It is located on the territory of the Nlaka'pamux nation… Lytton needs our help.  After a record breaking 3 days of heat, a fire broke out which has devastated the entire town.  Home and businesses have been lost.  People are displaced.”)

HELP FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE LYTTON WILDFIRE

(From the campaign: “All donations go directly to the families in need. Many people had to leave all of their belongings behind, most left and have no gas, clothes, emergency identification, and some even left with no shoes, etc..”)

EDUCATIONAL CONTENT FOR CHILDREN:

“CBC Kids News contributor Isabel DeRoy-Olson explores what it means to be an ally on National Indigenous Peoples Day.” (Youtube video - 5min. Published June 18, 2021)

“Anaana's Tent is an educational preschool television series that aims to prepare young children for their first years at school by promoting early literacy, math skills, and social skills.” (Interactive website featuring characters and videos from APTN’s “Anaana’s Tent”. Kid-friendly. IOS app available)

“11 books to teach kids about residential schools” (Article featuring children book recommendations by Alex Mlynek. September 28, 2017)

“It’s Our Time: The AFN Education Toolkit” (From the site: “A tool to bring together First Nations and non-First Nations people and foster a spirit of cooperation, understanding, and action.” iPhone & iPad friendly, PDF’s available.)

“How to talk to children about residential schools” (Educators share teaching resources from the classroom to assist speaking with children in the aftermath of a tragic discovery in Kamloops. Article by Anna McKenzie. June 3, 2021)

MEDIA REPRESENTATION:

MOVIES:

  • “Angry Inuk”  (2016) documentary film dir. by Alethea Arnaquq-Baril

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/angry_inuk

  • “Atanarjuat” (2002) drama film dir. by Zacharias Kunuk

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/atanarjuat_the_fast_runner_2002

  • “Blood Quantum” (2019) horror film dir. Jeff Barnaby

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/blood_quantum

  • “The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open” (2019) film drama dir. by Elle-Maija Tailfeathers

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_body_remembers_when_the_world_broke_open

  • “Boy” (2012) comedy-drama film dir. by Taika Waititi

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/boy_2012

  • “The Grizzlies” (2018) drama/sport film dir. by Miranda de Pencier

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_grizzlies

  • “Guardians of Eternity” (2015) documentary film dir. by France Benoit

https://www.guardiansofeternity.ca/

  • “Indian Horse” (2017) film drama dir. by Stephen Campanelli

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/indian_horse

  • “The Invisible Nation” (2007) documentary film dir. by Robert Monderie & Richard Desjardins

https://www.nfb.ca/film/invisible_nation/

  • “Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance” (1993) documentary film dir. by Alanis Obomsawin

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kanehsatake-270-years-of-resistance

  • “Monkey Beach” (2020) mystery/drama film dir. by Loretta Todd

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/monkey_beach

  • “Nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up” (2019) documentary film dir. by Tasha Hubbard

https://www.nfb.ca/film/nipawistamasowin-we-will-stand-up/

  • “Reel Injun” (2009) documentary film dir. by Neil Diamond, Catherine Bainbridge & Jeremiah Hayes

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/reel_injun

  • “There’s Something in the Water” (2019) film dir. by Elliot Page & Ian Daniel

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/theres_something_in_the_water

  • “We Were Children” (2012) film dir. by Tim Wolochatiuk

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/we_were_children

        TELEVISION:

  • “Colonization Road” S2E9 (2016) episode featuring Ryan McMahon.

https://gem.cbc.ca/media/firsthand/season-2/episode-9/38e815a-00b9abca4fc

  • “Merchants of the Wild” (2019) series by APTN with two seasons.
  • “Moosemeat & Marmalade” (2014) series by APTN with five seasons.
  • “North of 60” (1992) series by CBC with five seasons.
  • “Red Earth Uncovered” (2018) series by APTN with two seasons.
  • “Skindigenous” (2018) series on APTN with two seasons.
  • “Trickster” (2020) series by CBC with one season.
  • “Wrong Kind of Black” web series created by Boori Monty Pryor with four parts.

ORGANIZATIONS:

DONATION: Yes (via credit card)

(From their site: “On this day of September 30th, we call upon humanity to listen with open ears to the stories of survivors and their families, and to remember those that didn’t make it.”)

DONATION: Yes (via Paypal, donation link & Canada Helps)

(From their site: “The Indian Residential School Survivor Society (IRSSS) is a provincial organization with a twenty-year history of providing services to Indian Residential School Survivors.”)

DONATION: Yes (via donation linke & Canada Helps)

(From the site: “UNYA's focus since its inception in 1988 has been to provide meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth (Aboriginal, Metis, Inuit, First Nations, Status, Non-Status) in the urban setting. Our goal is to be a safe place for Indigenous youth to come and find out about programs and services at UNYA and in the broader community.”)

PETITIONS:

PETITION REQUIREMENTS: Canadian citizen or resident & must verify signature via email confirmation

Canadian House of Commons Petition e-3484. Calls on the federal government to pay for the costs to investigate former residential school sites, release all the documents related to deaths and compelling the church to do the same, securing the grounds of all residential schools until proper searches can be conducted.

PETITION REQUIREMENTS: Canadian citizen or resident & must verify signature via email confirmation

Canadian House of Commons Petition e-3466. Calls on the federal government to uphold the established Treaty relationship with the Haudenosaunee of the Grand River Territory, honour the moratorium put in place by the HCCC, and end the practice of paying out developers who do not honour the moratorium.

PETITION REQUIREMENTS: Email & Zip/Postal code

“SIGN THIS PETITION AND TELL PRESIDENT BIDEN: #STOPLINE3 PIPELINE”

Further actions available via this webpage. Additional resources such as videos, testimonials, fact sheets, and more.

PETITION REQUIREMENTS: Email & Postal code

“Remove Child Predator; Gassy Jack”

Gassy Jack being memorialized in this day and age is an abhorrent example of the ongoing oppression of First Nation’s people and the marginalization of the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

PETITION REQUIREMENTS: Email

“Bill 21 Petition”

From the petition: Bill 21 is the law in Quebec, Canada that bans individuals wearing religious symbols from working in certain public sector positions. This is a law that doesn’t just affect Muslims.

PETITION REQUIREMENTS: Email

“Demand Thorough Search of Residential School Lands for Native Children Remains”

Change.Org Petition calling on the United States and Canadian governments to thoroughly search the sites of former residential schools to recover the bodies of Indigenous children.

PODCASTS:

“ALL MY RELATIONS”

DONATION: Donation link & Patreon

(From their site: “All My Relations is a team of folks who care about representations, and how Native peoples are represented in mainstream media. Between us we have decades of experience working in and with Native communities, and writing and speaking about issues of representation.”)

“CANADALAND: THUNDER BAY”

DONATION: Subscription tiers

(True-crime podcast hosted by Ryan McMahon. From the site: “The highest homicide and hate crime rates in the country. Why does it all happen here?”)

“FINDING CLEO”

DONATION: No donation link, but please support Connie Walker

(From the site: “Where is Cleo? Taken by child welfare workers in the 1970s and adopted in the U.S., the young Cree girl’s family believes she was raped and murdered while hitchhiking back home to Saskatchewan.”)

“MEDIA INDIGENA”

DONATION: Patreon, E-Transfer, Paypal & Cheque

(From their founding Editor-in-Chief: “I believe that to best appreciate and ultimately act in support of what makes Indigenous peoples’ lives better, we need to be willing to push beyond convention and complacency. Because the status quo is literally deadening and destroying the lives of Indigenous peoples. Which means that, if Indigenous journalism is to be of any service to Indigenous peoples, it must critically engage that status quo.”)

“METIS IN SPACE”

DONATION: Patreon

(From their site: Métis In Space hilariously deconstructs the science fiction genre through a decolonial lense. Join hosts Molly Swain & Chelsea Vowel as they drink a bottle of (red) wine, and from a tipsy, decolonial perspective, review a sci-fi movie or television episode featuring Indigenous Peoples, tropes & themes.)

“SECRET LIFE OF CANADA”

DONATION: Not required, but please support the host(s)

(From VPL: The Secret Life of Canada is a history podcast about the country you know and the stories you don't.)

“STORYKEEPERS”

DONATION:

(From VPL: If you love Indigenous books, join Waubgeshig Rice and Jennifer David as they talk ‘all things Indigenous books’. Each episode, they bring in a guest host (an Indigenous author) and discuss one book. Prepare to laugh, hear stories, and enjoy animated debates and discussions.)

“UNRESERVED”

DONATION: Not required but please support the host(s)

(From VPL: Made for radio, this show highlights Indigenous community, culture, and conversation. Host Falen Johnson takes you straight into Indigenous Canada, from Halifax to Haida Gwaii, from Shamattawa to Ottawa, introducing listeners to the storytellers, culture makers and community shakers from across the country.)

RESOURCES:

DONATION: None

(94 Calls to Action found during the Truth & Reconciliation Commission)

DONATION: None

(Missing and Murdered Indigenous People: The Report)

DONATION: Not required, but encouraged

(National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. Research and educational resources available. From their site: “The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is a place of learning and dialogue where the truths of Residential School Survivors, families and communities are honoured and kept safe for future generations.”)

DONATION: Not required, but encouraged

(Resource guide list for settlers & Indigenous allies. From the site: “Non-Indigenous folk who live in Canada benefit from the colonialism that happened here. That means we are all responsible for our personal role in reconciliation.”)

DONATION: Not required. Course available for free via Coursera. Certificate available for fee, or take the class as a student at the University of Alberta.

(Take a University-level course. From the site: “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.”)

DONATION: None

(In participation with Canadian Geographic. Interactive map incorporating residential school histories and facts. From the site: “The residential school system is older than Confederation itself, having lasted from 1831 to 1996, and represents a dark aspect of Canadian history. These government-sponsored, church-run schools aimed to assimilate Indigenous children by taking them away from their families and forcibly eradicating their cultural identity. Residential schools have left a horrible legacy that survivors, communities and families are still struggling to overcome and heal from to this day.”)

DONATION: None

(Land Back resources by the Yellowhead Institute. “The project of land back is about reclaiming Indigenous jurisdiction: breathing life into rights and responsibilities. This Red Paper is about how Canada dispossesses Indigenous peoples from the land, and in turn, what communities are doing to get it back.”)

DONATION: None

(“So you want to be an Ally.” Indigenous Ally Toolkit.)

DONATION: None

(“Reconciliation Dialogue Workshop Discussion Guide by Reconciliation Canada.)

DONATION: None

(“Education Resource to Support Reconciliation”)

DONATION: Sign up to redistribute your wealth

(Land reparations and Indigenous solidarity toolkit from Resource Generation)

SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS:

  • A GUIDE ON INTERACTING WITH INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND TOPICS ONLINE

From @danishinaabe (Support on IG & via Paypal) https://www.instagram.com/p/CPt-EWNroP9/?utm_medium=copy_link

  • WHY I DON’T CELEBRATE CANADA DAY (why you shouldn’t either, and what we can do instead)

From @justaskjenny (Support on IG)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQi18n8B749/?utm_medium=copy_link

  • SO YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT NATIVE AMERICAN BOARDING SCHOOLS

From @thehumanityarchive & @soyouwanttotalkabout

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQvstO4MWvr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

VIDEOS:

A Mother’s Voice

(The history of Canada’s Indian Residential Schools and their legacy seen through the eyes of a survivor and her daughter. September 23, 2019. 14min.)

Why Some People Are Calling Out Canada’s 150

(Critical video regarding celebrating Canada’s 150th anniversary of the confederation from Maclean’s. June 21, 2017. 5min.)

What Really Happened at Standing Rock | I Was There

(In 2016, indigenous water protectors and their allies gathered at Standing Rock to oppose the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline under Lake Oahe and the Missouri River. Chase Iron Eyes, a member of the Great Sioux Nation and Lead Counsel for the Lakota People's Law Project, was one of those water protectors. Through his personal testimony and supporting protest footage, Chase recounts his experience at Standing Rock and its lasting legacy. September 25, 2020. 13min)

Dechinta Łiwe Camp: Fishing and Governance on Dene Land

(Field trip to Chief Drygeese Territory with Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning, to watch Yellowknives Dene facilitate a traditional fish camp on Great Slave Lake. Directed and edited by Morgan Tsetta. July 8, 2021. 14min)

Alanis Obomsawin (Abeniki) director’s National Film Board catalogue, free for viewing. 58 films varied in length.

WEBSITES:

DONATION: Not required, but encouraged.

(Canadian non-profit. Indigenous-led, donor-funded. An interactive map to acknowledge and learn about the territories and Indigenous lands you occupy.)

DONATION: Not required, but encouraged.

(From their site: “The Institute is a First Nation-led research centre based in the Faculty of Arts at Ryerson University in Toronto, Ontario. Privileging First Nation philosophy and rooted in community networks, Yellowhead is focused on policies related to land and governance. The Institute offers critical and accessible resources for communities in their pursuit of self-determination. It also aims to foster education and dialogue on First Nation governance across fields of study, between the University and the wider community, and among Indigenous peoples and Canadians.”)

SPECIAL THANKS & ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW:

Twitter:

@Alethea_Aggiuq (Twitter), @apihtawikosisan (Twitter), @ArnallLabrador (Twitter), @AzieDee (Twitter), @connie_walker (Twitter), @dearnonnatives (Twitter), @ericavioletlee (Twitter), @fka_jayesimpson (Twitter), @IdleNoMore4 (Twitter), @indigenia (Twitter), @KimTallBear (Twitter), @LenardMonkman1 (Twitter), @MaxFineDay (Twitter), @NativeApprops (Twitter), @paulseesequasis (Twitter), @richardvancamp (Twitter), @RMComedy (Twitter), @tagaq (Twitter), @TanyaTalaga (Twitter), @Terrilltf (Twitter), @tribecalledgeek (Twitter), @waub (Twitter), @WeMatterOrg (Twitter), @WordsandGuitar (Twitter)


Instagram:

@2braidzkwe (IG), @beads4femmes (IG), @blmcanada (IG), @braided_warriors (IG), @cdnroots (IG), @chiefladybird (IG & Twitter), @coralsandbees (IG), @dakotabearofficial (IG), @decolonizefirst (IG), @decolonizespringfield (IG), @fairycreekblockade (IG), @iiycfamily (IG), @indigenouseducators (IG), @indigenousgoddessgang (IG), @indigenousintentions (IG), @indigenousmotherhood (IG), @indigenousrising (IG), @larissa_speaks (IG), @marikasila (IG), @nativelovenotes (IG), @nazoonigel (IG), @ndncollective (IG), @oncanadaproject (IG), @reclaimyourpower (IG), @resistancerising (IG), @sfu.svspo (IG), @shayla0h (IG), @siiamhamilton (IG), @sweetmoonphoto (IG), @tiplerteaches (IG), @theindigenousfoundation (IG), @therezlife (IG), @unified-indigenous-movement_ (IG), @unyayouth (IG), @wapahkesis (IG), @wecantetakeya (IG), @wetsuweten_checkpoint (IG), @yintah_access (IG)

Tiktok:

@4generationscreations (Tiktok), @aichella (Tiktok), @artbybreannadeis (Tiktok), @asheisgod (Tiktok), @atigamaisyn (Tiktok), @canadiandude4 (Tiktok), @chief_javin (Tiktok), @deadlynim (Tiktok), @ethan.pasquayak (Tiktok), @fawn.wood (Tiktok), @geronimo.warrior (Tiktok), @indigenous_baddie (IG & Tiktok), @inyonifelix (Tiktok), @isapadeau (Tiktok), @jada.bada_ (Tiktok), @jayroymakokis (IG & Tiktok), @kendrajessie (IG & Tiktok), @martinadene (Tiktok), @modern_warrior__ (@IG & Tiktok), @navabroisss (Tiktok), @notoriouscree (IG & Tiktok), @ojibwaylegacy (Tiktok), @patukglenn (Tiktok), @prettyboydj (Tiktok), @rezdog99 (Tiktok), @scottwabano (IG & Tiktok), @sherry.mckay (Tiktok), @shinanova (IG & Tiktok), @sillygoosekalei (Tiktok), @taalrumiq (Tiktok), @the_land (IG & Tiktok), @tiamiscihk (IG & Tiktok), @ugrunna (Tiktok), @quiiroi (Tiktok), @zombieeagle7 (Tiktok)