Nii’kinaaganaa Foundation

Collecting rent and redistributing it to Indigenous People

Nii’kinaaganaa means we are all related, something like that. And we are, but we are not always good relatives and the history of the colonial west is one of taking rather than sharing. Too often saying that we are all related ignores the very real disparities and consequences of living a world that benefits some at the expense of others. So we are all related, but what about the responsibilities that come with relationship?

It is not enough to say that we live on Indigenous Land, we have to act as if we do.

Naomi Klein spoke those words at a conference in Winnipeg a number of years ago. It is one thing to acknowledge that we all live on Indigenous land, quite another to live as if we do. One thing that those who are not Indigenous to this place can do is pay rent. Through one time or monthly donations you can help to support Indigenous organizers who are building up their communities or confronting injustice. You can provide material support to Indigenous people who are in need. Check out the projects link to see what we are doing across Canada. At this time we are not able to take on additional long term projects, but with your help we will build our capacity to do so.

Fireweed

Fireweed is one of the first plants to come back after a forest fire, in fact it’s name comes from it’s propensity to rapidly fill areas burned out by fire, beginning the restoration process. It grows across most of what is currently Canada and the US, you’ve probably seen it’s pink and purple blossings along roadways and in meadows. It’s flowers make tea, in early spring the shoots are edible, and it is an important plant for pollitators.

Firweed is also the name we’ve chosen for part of the foundation that meets Indigenous needs. Whether you are an individual in need or an organizer doing work in your community. Fireweed is here to to help you. Click the image to find out more.

Pay Your Rent

Settlers. Newcomers. Migrants. Arrivants, Displaced people. However you got here, you are living on the land of the original people and as such you have a responsibility to build relationship with the land and people of this place. Paying rent is a beginning. Click the image to find out more.

Over time this section will also include resources for how you can get involved. Organizations you can join, actions you can take, books to read, and podcasts to listen to. One place to start is with the book Stories of Repair by the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery group, a compilation of stories from across the Mennonite churche offering tangible steps that individuals and communities are taking towards reparative justice.