Sarain Fox speaks about the power of community, the importance of uplifting youth, and why meaningful partnerships with Indigenous peoples begin with listening and working alongside one another.
When you think about ‘giving back,’ what does that mean in the context of Indigenous communities, and how can Canadians outside of these communities engage in meaningful ways?
There is no word for “I” in Anishinaabe. Meaning there is no concept of singular being that is not connected to community or to the land. So, giving back is not something that we make space for just once a year, it’s a way of being and living. An understanding that I is we I think all Canadian can be inspired by this concept and integrate it into their own lives and communities. When we see our success as not a win for us, but a win for community then they receive all the goodness, resources and bounty just as you do. It is shared not just given.
You often speak about responsibility to future generations. How do you see youth playing a role in giving back to their communities today?
When young people are given valuable roles and responsibilities in community, we show them their value, and we allow them to contribute their brilliance. Just allowing young people into typically “adult” spaces like government, politics, community and business we all benefit. Then these young people are inspired to be part of community. To belong, then that belonging can be shared. There is no greater gift then that of a feeling of safety and belonging.
For organizations or individuals looking to support Indigenous causes, what makes a partnership authentic and impactful rather than performative?
There are so many reasons to collaborate with Indigenous people, organizations and businesses. We are on the cutting edge of science, art, technology, climate work and so much more. There is no reason for performative alignments. Instead, now is the time to connect with Indigenous people through meaningful, diverse and just campaigns. Don’t just hire an Indigenous person, hire a team. Bring them on early in development and see what magic happens when you walk together through the process instead of scrambling last minute to reach your DEI goals.
If someone wanted to give back this season, what are some tangible ways they could make a meaningful difference?
This has been a hard year for so many. Donate to your local food bank. Find out who’s having a hard time in your own neighborhood, family, friends.
Remember how valuable your time is. How meaningful human connection is. Just taking time to sit with an elder and have a tea or treat someone on the streets to a warm meal. This is the true meaning of this time of year. It’s the collective commitment to small moments or joy. This is how we give back.
