A Journey of Solidarity and Relationship Building: The National Farmers Union Celebrates Indigenous Peoples Day
On June 21st, the NFU celebrates Indigenous Peoples Day by reflecting on the Indigenous-led learning experiences that have taken place within the NFU over the past year. The NFU has a deeply held, long-standing commitment to act in solidarity with Indigenous peoples fighting for food sovereignty. Over the years, Indigenous, non-Indigneous and settler farmers have been coming together in the NFU’s Indigenous Solidarity Working Group (ISWG) to build relationships of trust and solidarity.
In 2023-24, the NFU hosted five in-person and on-line Indigenous-led Learning Circles in which more than 150 Indigenous and non-Indigenous/settler farmers shared their different worldviews, experiences, histories and struggles in relation to the land.
The Indigenous-led learning circles have helped the NFU build a solid foundation to strengthen our work. Through collective sharing and relationship building, we see that how we work together is as important as what we do. Indigenous peoples’ diverse knowledges, worldviews and political economies provide crucial insights for building more respectful, collaborative, just and life-affirming relationships with one another and the Earth.
Importantly, work of NFU members over many decades along with the learning circles lay the groundwork for a resolution passed at our 2023 national convention to create an Indigenous Solidarity Strategy where Indigenous and non-Indigenous/settler NFU members can work across committees and caucuses to reflect on and educate ourselves about Indigenous sovereignties, land justice, and rematriation.
The following photos from some of the Learning Circles reflect a celebration of our relationships of trust and solidarity, of Indigenous ways of being and knowing, of Indigenous ceremony, art, and dialogue with each other and the land. They remind us that Indigenous Peoples Day — and the actions we take every day — is an ongoing journey for the health and wellbeing of everyone and Mother Earth.
Participants at the NFU Convention in Region 3 join an Indigenous-led round dance and learning circle. November 24th 2023.
Indigenous NFU members and guests create a deer hide protocol for relationship building and solidarity at the Indigenous Community Building Circle in Region 8. March 22nd – 24th 2024.
Indigenous and non-Indigenous/settler NFU members participate in a ‘work bee’ and shared meal at the Wagmatcook First Nation community garden in Region 1, Mi’kma’ki. April 6th 2024.
This Indigenous Peoples Day Join Events Near You!
On June 21, join with neighbours and friends at your local Indigenous Peoples Day gatherings, events, demonstrations, and other activities to honour Indigenous peoples heritage, culture and their relationships to one another and the land. For a list of events across the country, visit here and here.
