HAPPY INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY

On Friday, President Biden officially proclaimed today Indigenous Peoples Day. Some First Nations folks have always had an issue celebrating the arrival of Columbus to Turtle Island, and with good reason. This Indigenous Peoples Day, I’d like to highlight a few organizations that are doing great things in the First Nations communities.

The Chahta Foundation

As some of you know, I’m a proud tribal member of the Choctaw Nation. Though only part of me is “officially” Choctaw (I’m also Scottish and Irish from my father’s side), I have always felt a strong connection to my Choctaw roots. The Chahta Foundation provides education, wellness and tradition resources to the Choctaw People. Learn more and donate here: https://chahtafoundation.com/donate/

Native Womens Wilderness

Native Womens Wilderness works to lift Native Womens’ voices in the outdoor realm, as well as help Native Women reconnect with nature. They also concentrate on shining a light on the prevalent issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Learn more and donate here: https://www.nativewomenswilderness.org/donate

First Nations Development Institute

The First Nations Development Institute strives to boost Native economies and support the Native communities. It gives grants, provides resources, and about a thousand other things. Learn more and donate here: https://www.firstnations.org/fndi_donate/

There are many more out there that are equally worth your attention and support, which can be found with a quick Google search. I would also recommend finding opportunities to help those in your specific community, no matter the heritage. The only way we move forward is by doing it together.

Tikba ihiya
(Choctaw: to continue, or move forward)

BP.