On June 21, the longest day of the year, we mark National Indigenous Peoples Day – a time to honour the brilliance, strength and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across these lands. Rooted in the summer solstice, a time of renewal and ceremony for many Indigenous cultures, this day is not simply a celebration, but is also a day to reflect on our responsibilities, relationships and the ongoing movements for justice, land back and self-determination.

At Small Change Fund, our work is grounded in relationships with Indigenous leaders, communities and organizations. These are not transactional relationships but relationships of trust, collaboration and shared purpose. We are committed to listening, (un)learning and showing up in ways that are respectful, reciprocal and accountable. Many of the projects we support are Indigenous-led and land-based, advancing critical work in land protection, water stewardship, food sovereignty and cultural revitalization. Our work is shaped by Indigenous knowledge systems and guided by the vision of Indigenous partners.

On this National Indigenous Peoples Day – and every day – we invite you to walk alongside Indigenous communities in the spirit of respect, relationship and reciprocity. Begin by learning whose lands you live on, and listening to the voices of those who have cared for these territories since time immemorial. Reflect on how you can be part of the work already underway to protect the land and water, revitalize language and culture and support the movement towards true self-determination. There is space for everyone in this work, and there is no better time to begin than now.