We stand with First Nations families and communities

This week (and every week) we stand in solidarity with First Nations families and invite you to do the same.

We acknowledge First Nations people as the traditional custodians of the land, the sky, the sea and the waterways across this country. Their sovereignty was never ceded and their cultural knowledge and enduring connection to Country has a vital role to play in addressing the climate crisis. Effective climate solutions must include First Nations justice. 

Photo by Stewart Munro on Unsplash

As we approach 26th January it is an opportunity for us to stand up as allies and show our support for First Nations justice.

What can we do as allies to be supportive?

Below is a list of actions inspired by Tish King, Dr Virginia Marshall, Larissa Baldwin and Roxy Moore from the recent Groundswell Giving Truth Telling and Healing webinar - 

1. Acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land where you live and work, learn the traditional name/s of these places and encourage your family members, friends and colleagues to do the same.
2. Participate in truth-telling - be informed by First Nations voices about the history of our country. Share what you learn with your family and friends. Acknowledging the truth of our past is an important step in moving forward together.
3. Amplify the voices of First Nations leaders by sharing their stories (in their own words) on your social media channels. Let First Nations people tell their own stories.
4. Connect with your local First Nations community - let them know you stand with them and be willing to listen and learn.
5. Attend a First Nations led event on 26th January to show your support and solidarity. If you can’t make it to an event consider donating to support a First Nations justice or climate action campaign (see some suggestions below).

Can’t get to an event but want to show your support?

Here is a small selection of organisations and campaigns that are directly supporting First Nations families and communities - your donation is one of the many ways you can show solidarity.

Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network - supporting our indigenous youth allies in the climate movement

Martuwarra Fitzroy River Flood Appeal - supporting the communities impacted by recent catastrophic weather events

Our Islands Our Home - supporting Torres Strait Islander communities to protect their island homes from climate impacts

Common Ground - supporting truth telling and sharing of First Nations culture

Children’s Ground - supporting First Nations children and families

The Dhadjowa Foundation - supporting First Nations families affected by deaths in custody

By showing solidarity with First Nations families and communities on January 26th and every other day, we are honouring the care and custodianship shown to our natural environment over tens of thousands of years and we can play a part in creating a more equitable society and safer climate for all.

Thank you for standing with us.

Photo by Johan Mouchet on Unsplash