One Day’s Pay, is an annual campaign that invites settlers and non-Indigenous citizens to meaningfully recognize the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools on September 30th. As one of the founders of this organization, I have been struck by the growing acceptance and embracing of concepts that amplify Indigenous self-determination: namely, the principle of “Indigenous-led.” Four years ago, using this terminology necessitated an explanation that Indigenous-led organizations are best positioned to inform solutions in their communities. Now, it is a given.

New language being tied to “Indigenous-led” includes innovation and impact, demonstrating how mobilizing funds and resources for Indigenous-led organizations turns the collective doomsday dial down.

Kris Archie, CEO of The Circle on Philanthropy, a national Indigenous-led organization that works to transform the philanthropic sector to redistribute wealth, activate wisdom and strengthen organizational infrastructure for the purpose of Indigenous peoples, organizations, communities and nations shares:

“The opportunity to fund Indigenous-led organizations is not only a specific act of repair and reciprocity for anyone who lives in these lands, and who benefits from the wealth of this land that has been forcibly, violently, taken by others, it's a small act of generosity. That small act of generosity over time builds into an opportunity for abundance for Indigenous-led organizations and institutions who are doing some of the most innovative policy and legislative change work in this country that doesn't just benefit Indigenous organizations but benefits all Canadians.”

This invitation is expansive, hopeful and significant. And, in a ground-breaking way, addresses historical and ongoing power imbalances by repositioning donors to Indigenous-led organizations as collaborative partners.

We know the challenges we collectively face: climate crisis, access to healthy foods and waters, economic disparity, injustice and inequality. By aligning with Indigenous peoples, we are aligning with a better future for all.

Archie continues,

“You are also demonstrating an intergenerational commitment to change that this country needs. You'll benefit, your children will benefit, and your grandchildren will benefit when the stewards of these lands are provided with the abundance to bring their most beautiful and bold vision to life.”

Join us on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by giving one day’s pay or what you can afford to an Indigenous-led organization.

For more information go to: onedayspay.ca or find us on all social platforms.

Jess Fraser is an experienced creative who is passionate about using storytelling as a vehicle to accelerate change locally and internationally.