On this Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor the resilience, strength, and cultural endurance of Native peoples while reflecting on one of the most devastating chapters in U.S. history—the Trail of Tears. This forced relocation of at least 60,000 Native Americans from their ancestral lands, starting in the 1830s, is often understated. Historians argue that this number represents only a fraction of those displaced, as Native populations, once in the millions, were decimated to less than 400,000 by the end of the 19th century. Disease, starvation, and exposure claimed thousands of lives during these forced migrations, but the long-term impacts on Indigenous cultures were profound. The attempt to erase their way of life, language, and connection to the land was a clear act of violence rooted in colonization and expansionism .

Despite this, Native cultures have not only survived but continue to thrive. Traditions, languages, and stories persist through oral history, ceremonies, and art. In particular, the ribbon skirts worn by First Nations women hold immense significance, representing more than just clothing—they are powerful symbols of identity, resistance, and connection to the land. Each ribbon, each color, and each pattern tells a story, passed down through generations, reminding the world that Native cultures can never be erased. This form of cultural storytelling is not unique to one tribe or nation but is a universal thread among Indigenous peoples. From the textiles of Mexican Indigenous communities to the beadwork of the Plains tribes, every element of dress and ceremony is imbued with history, meaning, and survival.

As we remember the Trail of Tears and the systemic efforts to eradicate Native peoples, we must also acknowledge the strength of Indigenous women, men, and families who continue to fight for their rights, sovereignty, and cultural preservation. Their resilience is proof that despite centuries of colonization and violence, Indigenous cultures remain vibrant and unbreakable. Today, let us share the real history and stand in solidarity with Native peoples in their ongoing struggle for justice and recognition.

Join us for the next 30 days in the Kindness Campaign starting October 14th!

Every act of kindness, no matter how small, creates ripples of positivity both within and around us. When we’re kind, we lower stress, improve our mood, and even boost our immune system. It builds stronger connections, fosters trust, and enhances our sense of belonging. Externally, kindness creates a ripple effect in our communities, encouraging others to pay it forward. Together, we can shift the energy around us and make our world a brighter place.

Let’s commit to kindness and see how it transforms our lives, our hearts, and the world.

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At 4:30 AM, I was stirred awake by intense Pain, first in my Ovaries, then radiating through my uterus, hips, and lower back. At first, I thought it was just the final stage of my Moon Time, but as I moved and felt the pain deepen, I realized what day it was. My mind had forgotten, but my Body knew. It’s been a year since my little Womb Baby took Spirit form, and my Body, in its Wisdom, carried that Memory.

In that moment, I knew I needed to honor Her in a Sacred way. I returned to the Tree that helped me through Her transition, decorating it with Flowers for Her and for all Spirit Children. As I placed the Flowers, a small Gray Feather appeared—right in the spot where I was arranging them. It was a quiet, powerful reminder of the Sacredness of this journey.

September 30th holds deep meaning for me, not only because of my personal loss but also because it’s the day I honor the Native Children lost at Haskell. For those unfamiliar with its history, Haskell was once a residential school where Native Children were forcibly taken to be stripped of their Indigeneity—of their Culture, Language, and Spiritual Practices. These schools aimed to “kill the Indian, save the man,” and many Native Children faced horrific abuse—Physical, Sexual, Emotional. Many never made it home. I go to the Baker Wetlands to remember and honor them, and it’s always an emotional experience. The day is filled with both Grief and Beauty.

As I sang during the Ceremony today, I heard voices joining mine. At first, I thought it must be the Frogs in the Water, but then I realized—no, it was Them. The voices of the Lost Children. And where the ground was dry and cracked last year, today it was lush, full of Life. Nature reminding me how quickly things can change when we allow for nature to heal.

But today, my heart also honors all Children fighting for their lives—those in Congo, Sudan, Palestine, Lebanon. Our own Children here in foster care, Children in Mexico & South America. Innocent Children in places that are hurting, fighting battles they should never have to face. They, too, are Sacred, and they, too, deserve our Prayers, our Love, and our Action.

Aho Metakayasin