Rooted Resilience: The Vital Call for Ground-Level Engagement in Native Activism
Native activism stands as a crucial force, echoing the resilience and vibrancy of Indigenous cultures while addressing the persistent challenges faced by Native communities. Engaging in activism at the grassroots level is imperative, as it fosters a deep connection to the tangible issues affecting Indigenous people and their lands. Ground-level involvement allows us to bridge gaps, nurture authentic relationships, and amplify the voices of those most impacted. By actively participating in on-the-ground initiatives, individuals can witness the tangible impact of their efforts, promoting a more profound understanding of the diverse challenges faced by Native communities. In this way, native activism becomes a catalyst for positive change, building bridges of understanding and solidarity to pave the way for a more just and inclusive future. Getting involved on the ground level is not just a call to action; it is a commitment to building meaningful connections and driving transformative change from the roots up. Engaging in diverse initiatives, Native Made fosters connections between communities on multiple fronts. Explore Native Made’s active participation in Native Activism to gain deeper insights into their impactful contributions.
Indigenous Peoples Day Rochester NY Committee Member
Angelina Hilton, a proud member of the Sac and Fox tribe, stands as an advocate for Indigenous rights and cultures. As the founder of Native Made, she has donated time and efforts to the Indigenous Peoples Day Rochester NY Committee since September 2022. Over the years, Native Made has not only been an integral part of the committee but has taken on various roles, showcasing commitment to the cause. Serving on both the Indigenous Advisory Subcommittee and leading the Marketing Subcommittee, Native Made has played a pivotal role in shaping the committee’s direction. From launching the website and managing social platforms to designing impactful posters, postcards, business cards, and t-shirts, the organization has demonstrated their multifaceted skills. Strategic planning has been instrumental in advancing the committee’s mission. Beyond the listed contributions, the dedication has significantly contributed to the success of the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee in Rochester NY, which tirelessly worked for years to achieve legislative recognition of the second Monday of October as exclusively Indigenous Peoples Day in the city of Rochester NY.
2023 Ganondagan Husking Bee
“The White Corn Project is dedicated to encouraging Haudenosaunee farmers to cultivate corn and promoting its consumption within our communities, not just for special occasions or ceremonial purposes, but as a daily dietary staple,” expressed Jeanette Jemison (Mohawk, Snipe Clan), Program Director for Friends of Ganondagan.
Earlier in the year, Native Made demonstrated its commitment to the White Corn Project by volunteering to prepare the land for the cultivation of white corn. Through hands-on efforts, the organization contributed to the groundwork necessary for planting, emphasizing its dedication to supporting initiatives that foster agricultural sustainability and cultural preservation within Native American communities. This proactive engagement underscores Native Made’s holistic approach to activism, where tangible actions align with the organization’s mission to bridge communities and promote the cultivation and consumption of traditional crops like white corn.
Edge Of The Woods Ceremony
A gathering convened at Cobbs Hill Reservoir on October 9, 2023, for the Sunrise Celebration, marking the commencement of Indigenous Peoples Day. The Sunrise Ceremony served as a poignant outset to the day, featuring multiple speakers delivering gratefulness addresses. In a symbolic nod to the ancient Edge of the Woods ceremony, participants embraced ceremonial ear washing, embodying the tradition’s essence of heightened hearing, and indulged in the symbolic drinking of water to speak with clarity. Active participation in these symbolic rituals extended to several representatives from the sponsoring organizations of the day’s events. The Haudenosaunee Confederacy ritual, deeply rooted in historical practices where visitors signaled their arrival to a village through song or fire, was vividly brought to life as representatives of the day’s program demonstrated elements of the Edge of the Woods ceremony.
Tina MacIntyre-Yee /Rochester Democrat And Chronicle
The Indigenous Health Coalition
The inaugural meeting of the Indigenous Health Coalition took place in November 2023. Guided by a select group of local Indigenous advocates, the coalition is dedicated to enhancing health and well-being in Native communities. Currently, the coalition is actively engaged in the crucial strategic planning phase to define strategies for achieving its goals. Although new members are not being accepted presently, additional information about the coalition’s initiatives can be found in the FAQ document or by subscribing to receive updates from the coalition.
To learn more visit: https://www.commongroundhealth.org/collaborations/indigenous-health-coalition
Onondaga Nation Farm Planting Day
In the spring of 2023, we teamed up with the Syracuse-Onondaga Food Systems Alliance, Onondaga Nation Farm, and Braiding the Sacred to collaboratively prepare the land and sow corn. Braiding the Sacred, an expanding network of Indigenous Corn Growers from the Four Directions, is committed to uniting and safeguarding traditional varieties of Sacred Corn. This essential food, medicine, and ceremonial element were bestowed by the Creator upon Indigenous Nations spanning from Canada to South America. The gatherings facilitated connections among leaders and emerging seed keepers, underscoring the crucial role that Corn and other traditional foods play in fostering the well-being of our communities.
To learn more visit: https://braidingthesacred.org/
One Tree Planted Ambassador
Native Made proudly serves as a One Tree Planted Ambassador, committed to the ambitious goal of planting one million trees by 2030. A percentage of our annual revenue is dedicated to supporting One Tree Planted in their mission to simplify environmental conservation through tree planting. By contributing to this cause, we aim to restore forests, create habitats for biodiversity, and generate positive social impacts globally. One Tree Planted has successfully planted over 92.7 million trees in 80 countries since 2014, and in 2022, they surpassed their previous year’s impact by more than doubling the number, reaching an impressive milestone of 52.7 million trees planted. Join us in making a lasting impact on our planet’s health and well-being.
Native American Rights Fund
In partnership with Omnidon Productions, Native Made worked together to create the “On Native Land” wall calendar for the year 2024. This calendar not only functions as an educational and reference tool but also contributes to raising awareness. A significant portion of presale proceeds was donated to supporting the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), an organization committed to holding governments accountable. NARF actively fights to safeguard Native American rights, resources, and lifeways through litigation, legal advocacy, and expertise in the legal field.
Orange Shirt Day
On September 27, 2023, in observance of Orange Shirt Day, Native Made took part in a meaningful initiative to commemorate and pay tribute to Native children who were forcibly separated from their parents and enrolled in residential schools. As a gesture of solidarity, Native Made played a crucial role in designing the special t-shirt for a film screening event. This event aimed not only to raise awareness but also to foster remembrance and understanding. The film showing was complemented by an Indigenous panel discussion, creating a platform to emphasize that “Every Child Matters.” Through this collaborative effort, we strive to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the impact of historical injustices and advocate for a future where every child is valued and respected.
Get Involved
Join the Movement to Advocate, Support, and Amplify Native Voices for a More Inclusive Future
Stand with us in solidarity for Native rights and empowerment! Join the movement to advocate for justice, equality, and the preservation of Native cultures. Your support can make a real impact. Sign up now to stay informed, participate in campaigns, and contribute to the cause. Together, let’s amplify the voices of Native communities and work towards a future where indigenous rights are respected and upheld. Act now – be a catalyst for positive change!