Calgary Indigenous Human Rights Circle

Fighting for Indigenous human rights includes fighting for water rights. Water is not a privilege—it is a fundamental human right. Yet, many Indigenous communities across Canada and the world still struggle to access clean, safe drinking water.

A proud Anishinaabe water warrior, Autumn Peltier has been advocating for clean water in Indigenous communities since she was 8 years old. She has spoken at the United Nations and challenged world leaders to protect water as a human right.

What Can You Do?
💙 Support Indigenous-led water protection movements.
💙 Learn about and share the struggles of Indigenous communities facing water crises.
💙 Hold governments and corporations accountable for water protection and environmental justice.

Which Indigenous leader inspires you? Tag them or share their story below!

Today, we celebrate the strength, brilliance, and enduring presence of Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island.

June is Indigenous History Month—a time to uplift Indigenous voices, recognize the deep-rooted histories that shape this land, and honour the diverse cultures, languages, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

But today, on June 21, we pause with extra intention. National Indigenous Peoples Day is more than a celebration—it's a reminder of resilience, resistance, and the right to self-determination. It’s also a call to action: to learn, to unlearn, and to stand in meaningful solidarity.

To our Indigenous communities: your stories matter, your leadership matters, and your future is powerful.

📣 Let’s keep learning. Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep walking forward—together.

Indigenous leaders have long fought for justice, human rights, and the protection of land and culture. This month, we're highlighting those leaders!

A member of the Gitxsan Nation, Dr. Cindy Blackstock has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of Indigenous children. She led the legal battle that forced the Canadian government to end discrimination in child welfare services, impacting thousands of First Nations kids.
She continues to push for equity in education, health, and social services for Indigenous youth.
Child welfare equity ensures that all children, regardless of their background or where they live, have equal access to opportunities, resources, and services that promote their well-being and development. For Indigenous children, achieving equity in child welfare is a critical step towards justice and reconciliation.

What Can You Do?
Everyone has a role to play in achieving child welfare equity. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
1️⃣ Educate Yourself
📚 Learn about the history of child welfare in Indigenous communities and the ongoing challenges they face. Understanding the issues is the first step toward supporting change.
2️⃣ Amplify Indigenous Voices
📢 Share the stories of Indigenous advocates like Cindy Blackstock and support organizations that fight for the rights of Indigenous children. Elevating their voices helps to keep the conversation going.
3️⃣ Support Indigenous-Led Initiatives
💙 Support organizations working to address the child welfare crisis and provide resources to Indigenous children and families. Your time, donations, or advocacy can have a lasting impact.
4️⃣ Hold Governments Accountable

Which Indigenous leader inspires you? Tag them or share their story below!

This month, we want to highlight because Indigenous leaders have always been at the forefront of protecting rights, culture, and the land. A prominent leader in Treaty 7 territory was Chief Crowfoot, who has shaped history and paved the pathway forward for many Indigenous people, specifically the Niitsitapi.

As a respected leader of the Siksika Nation, Chief Crowfoot played a key role in negotiating Treaty 7 in 1877. He sought peace between Indigenous Nations and settlers, despite broken promises by the government. His wisdom, diplomacy, and strength continue to inspire Indigenous sovereignty movements today.
Which Indigenous leader inspires you? Tag them or share their story below!

A Treaty is a Promise. A Promise Must Be Kept.
When treaty rights are violated, Indigenous sovereignty, human rights, and the future of reconciliation are at stake. It’s time to demand action!

👉🏽 What can you do?
🔹 Learn about the treaties in your area.
🔹 Support Indigenous-led movements for land and water protection.
🔹 Call on the government to honor its commitments to Indigenous Nations.
Treaty rights are human rights. No more broken promises.

Why Do Treaty Rights Matter Today?
✅ They protect Indigenous rights to land, water, and traditional practices.
✅ They recognize Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination.
✅ Honoring treaties is essential for reconciliation and justice in Canada.

What Are Treaty Rights?

Treaty rights are the rights Indigenous peoples have under the treaties made between Indigenous Nations and the Crown (the British or Canadian government). These rights are legally binding and recognized in Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution Act, 1982.
Treaties were agreements between Indigenous Nations and the government, meant to establish peaceful relations, land-sharing, and mutual obligations. However, the government often failed to uphold these agreements, leading to ongoing disputes and legal battles.

SEEDS Connection and the Indigenous Human Rights Circle want you to join them for the Building Our Future Elders Gathering — a FREE one-day event focused on Indigenous culture, human rights, and community connection!

🗓️ Saturday, May 10, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
📍 Meet at 69th Street C-Train Station (transport provided to a land-based location 20 minutes west of Calgary)
🎯 Open to ALL high school-aged youth (Indigenous & non-Indigenous youth welcome!)
👥 Limited to 60 participants – don’t wait to sign up!

✨ Workshop Highlights:
✔️ Hand Games
✔️ Land-Based Teachings
✔️ Crafts
✔️ Tipi Talks
✔️ Free food & drinks

➡️ Register now: https://forms.gle/9SE39DJDQQPYUG587
📲 Or scan the QR code on the poster!

Let’s build a future rooted in respect, culture, and community 💛

An amazing FREE event for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth to learn from each other on the land

SEEDS Connection and the Indigenous Human Rights Circle want you to join them for the Building Our Future Elders Gathering — a FREE one-day event focused on Indigenous culture, human rights, and community connection!

🗓️ Saturday, May 10, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
📍 Meet at 69th Street C-Train Station (transport provided to a land-based location 20 minutes west of Calgary)
🎯 Open to ALL high school-aged youth (Indigenous & non-Indigenous youth welcome!)
👥 Limited to 60 participants – don’t wait to sign up!

✨ Workshop Highlights:
✔️ Hand Games
✔️ Land-Based Teachings
✔️ Crafts
✔️ Tipi Talks
✔️ Free food & drinks

➡️ Register now: https://forms.gle/9SE39DJDQQPYUG587
📲 Or scan the QR code on the poster!

Let’s build a future rooted in respect, culture, and community 💛

True partnerships with Indigenous communities are built on equity, reciprocity, and action. ✊🏽 Let’s move beyond symbolic gestures and create meaningful change by ensuring fair access, shared benefits, and a commitment to reconciliation. "

Let's move beyond one-time engagements and honour Indigenous governance, traditions, and ways of knowing.

A meaningful partnership with an Indigenous organization or individual is built on respect, reciprocity, and long-term commitment. Over the next few weeks, learn some key elements that define a strong and meaningful collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Organizations.