This is a resource list for Indigenous youth who are dealing with a range of emotions on July 1, so-called “Canada Day.” As you move through the day, we hope you remember to be gentle with yourself as Indigenous youth. We’ve put together resources for you to care for yourself and your web of relations. Consider connecting with the land, co-regulating with community and getting off of social media if your lifestyle allows.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed
- Take a few big, deep breaths
- Have a gentle day
- Feed and water yourself
- Tips for FN young women including cisgender females, trans women, non-binary people and those who identify as Two-Spirit/Indigiqueer
- Access: NYSHN’s Peer Support Manual
- Read: You Matter Too: Resources for Self-Care by Farrah Khan
If you’re feeling activated
- Connect with community
- Find out what protests are happening in your area
- Support land defenders
- Check out: Intro to Community Organizing Toolkit (Credit: Michelle Xie)
- Read up: BLAC and CABL’s Protestor Toolkit (Know Your Rights)
Other supports for Indigenous youth
- MMIWIG2S+ Support Line
- 1-844-413-6649
- Open 24/7
- Hope For Wellness Indigenous Peoples’ Helpline
- 1-855-242-3310
- Chat Service (24/7): hopeforwellness.ca
- English, Cree, Ojibway, Inuktitut
- Youthspace
- LGBT YouthLine
If you’re a non-Indigenous ally
- Support land defenders
- Redistribute your resources
- Check on your Indigenous friends, family and neighbours
- Learn about and reflect on the land you live on
- Read up: Indigenous Ally Toolkit
- Know whose land you’re a guest on: Native-Land.ca