Would you pay a “voluntary land tax”?

Here’s an article that really helped me to think through the “Well, it’s complicated…what could I do?” that occurs when we members of the dominant “colonial/settler” culture begin to wrestle with racism and its systemic impact on Indigenous peoples. Being an ally involves actions, not merely words or hopes. 

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Committing to a New Story

Supporting Indigenous sovereignty means supporting lifeways that honor the land, waters, and more-than-human world. More than challenge the myth, find an action that can help a story of healing and sovereignty unfold.

• Participate in existing “Voluntary Land Taxes” to the Native nations where you live. The Shuumi land tax (Bay Area, CA), Real Rent Duwamish (Seattle), and the Honor Native Land Tax (New Mexico) are great examples. Alternatively, donate to an Indigenous group or organization in your area. *Props to the NYC N&N group,* who organized support for the Manna-hatta Fund. If you live on Lenape land, you can take part in their efforts by donating here then filling out this anonymous form. 
• Support and join Indigenous-led efforts for climate justice. Learn about specific efforts where you live, or support national efforts like dropping charges against Line 3 water protectors or following organizations like NDN Collective and Indigenous Climate Network.
• Support Real Land Rematriation! Our friends at Agrarian Trust and an Indigenous collective are raising funds to acquire a 64-acre farm within the ancestral homelands of Nipmuc and Massachusett People — with the vision of revitalizing traditional foodways and earth-centered stewardship. Donate to this amazing project-of-possibilities (*password to page is AT1234), and encourage friends to do the same!
• In Case You Missed It: Check out this collaboration between the Shinnecock Kelp Farmers and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, NY. The sisters’ coastal retreat center property is now also home to this Indigenous woman-led cooperative, kelp hatchery, and regenerative ocean farm.