Phoenix Charter Academy Network’s Post

The spirit of being thankful is one I tap into as often as I can. On a practical level, it slows me down when I’m feeling unseen or misunderstood. Thankful moments allow me to see the bigger picture. And in a society where the grind stretches working folk away from frequent touch and connection with loved ones, it is a moment of reunification and remembrance of those who have transitioned.  It also matters that this is a time of mourning for Indigenous communities, many of whom see Thanksgiving as the beginning of colonization and an erasure of customs. I’ve been blessed to connect and build relationships with those native to this land and soil throughout the country and to begin the learnings and teachings most of us were denied in our educational institutions. It takes effort for sure, but it matters how to me how this time continues to dismiss trauma, genocide and erasure.  I’ve read this article many times and it reminds me of a few things:  1) Indigenous peoples still exist. By only commemorating their land during events or journeys as “past tense” we erase what how they’ve survived and endured—and the power of their fight for reclamation.  2) We can hold space for family and friends while also pushing for a more truthful narrative of how we got here in the first place; 3) Indigenous folk and traditions aren’t monolithic. Each person and community honors their heritage and history differently. That said, part of truth and reconciliation includes following the leadership of the harmed and oppressed. Which means we have to be more open to a fellowship that may yield a shift in how we see this mass holiday we’ve all inherited.  Sharing this article on ways Indigenous communities are impacted by this season. Be thankful and truthful every day.  https://lnkd.in/edyKr5cU

Preserving a family legacy goes beyond just stories and lessons. It's about setting examples through our actions. Let's keep the tradition alive for generations to come. #generationalwisdom #familylegacy #keepthetraditionalive #generationsoflove #traditions #leadbyexample #rootsandwings #passingiton #lifelessons #heritage #familyvalues #legacymatters #inspirationalfamily #keepitalive #subscribetoday #followformore

Co-founded by the Jesuits of Canada, STIR's retreats are designed for those facing life challenges. They apply Ignatian and 12-Step spiritualities in real-world contexts. This isn't just a retreat — it's a glimpse into timeless principles in action, fostering healing and community. https://buff.ly/3OfbqQj

For gratitude to come across as genuine, it requires thoughtfulness - self-awareness, and empathy, sincere actions that foster long-lasting relations. 🍁 https://lnkd.in/grHKZnXH

Check out Bloom Communications’ latest blog post on how to celebrate Native American Heritage Month. Plus, if you haven’t yet, give us a follow.

U.S. Indigenous Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and honor the rich and diverse traditions, languages, customs and cultures of the original peoples of the Americas. Indigenous communities have inhabited these lands for thousands of years, long before the arrival of European colonizers a few hundred years ago. Modern society is only just beginning to recognize the wisdom of our indigenous peoples, including the importance of deep connection to the land and profound understanding of its ecosystems, uses of plants and herbs for healing and medicine, ceremonies honoring humanity and our connection to the earth, among many other things. This month also has its roots in the efforts of Indigenous leaders and activists who sought to raise awareness about the historical injustices and challenges faced by indigenous communities. We cannot honor this month without talking about the history of genocide, forced displacement and resettlement, loss of ancestral lands and the resulting spiritual implications, discrimination, and cultural suppression of indigenous peoples. There are long-lasting impacts of this history. Let us take this month as an opportunity to learn more about and engage with folks from different Indigenous nations, tribes, and bands, amplify their voices, and work towards a more equitable and inclusive society where their cultures, customs and practices are celebrated and respected year-round. To learn more about U.S. Indigenous Heritage Month, visit this website: https://buff.ly/3QJQW2O #IndigenousHeritageMonth #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth #IndigenousPride #NativeCulture #FirstNations #RespectIndigenous #NativeVoices #HonoringTraditions #CulturalHeritage #NativeLand #TribalNations #IndigenousArt #NativeRights #CelebrateDiversity #SupportIndigenous #TraditionalWisdom #IndigenousHistory #NativeCommunity #HeritageMonth #LandAcknowledgment

On this last day of Native American Heritage Month, I want to share this article in referencing SAMHSA which has partnered with Native Nations for funding and supportive services. Due to historical trauma stemming from colonization, genocide, displacement, and dispossession of land, economic opportunities, generational wealth including religion, native language, and culture, Native Nations and communities still feel the profound effects of that trauma in their everyday lives. The lingering effects of displacement and the lack of cultural representation in our society are a significant factor in Indigenous women more likely to be reported missing. And the lack of coverage in the news media when Indigenous women are reported missing similar to the lack of news media coverage of missing Black and Brown women only adds to the trauma experienced in Native American communities. Native Nations are more disproportionately at risk for suicide, alcohol and substance use disorders, and mental health struggles in relation to trauma. This article includes reports and information for clinical and mental health professionals in areas of social work and mental health counseling on providing care and treatment to Native Nations with cultural competence and through a trauma informed lens.

I like to share this with you; The importance of Dreaming stories and creation stories in Aboriginal First Nations Australian culture is profound and deeply connected to the land, spirituality, and identity of First Nations people across the continent. Dreaming stories, also known as Dreamtime stories, are passed down through generations by elders through oral traditions, songs, dances, and ceremonies. They explain the origins of the land, animals, plants, stars and people, and they provide a spiritual and cultural foundation for Indigenous communities. In Aboriginal belief systems, the Dreaming is not just a series of past events but a living, ongoing spiritual connection between the land, the people, and the ancestors. Each nations group or tribe has its own Dreaming stories that are specific to their land and ancestors, and these stories are crucial for maintaining cultural identity, relationships with the land, and spiritual connections. For individuals within a community, being a keeper of Dreaming stories is a significant responsibility. It involves preserving and passing on the knowledge, traditions, and values of their ancestors to future generations. This role is often held by elders and respected community members who have a deep understanding of the Dreaming stories and their meanings. In the context of your family's connection to country, such as my father's Gudjal country in Charters Towers and my mother's Waanyi and Wambaya nations across the Barkley table land NT and across to the Qld side where lawn hill, the Dreaming stories associated with these lands are essential for understanding your family's history, identity, and relationship with the land. The kangaroo dreaming and dingo dreaming are examples of Dreaming stories that traverse vast distances, connecting different regions and communities through shared cultural narratives. For us First Nations people who maintain and those that’s are keepers of these stories, for there families and communities uphold their cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, and connections to the land of their ancestors. This ongoing transmission of knowledge and stories is integral to preserving our cultures, fostering a sense of belonging and identity, and ensuring the continuation of spiritual practices that have sustained us First Nations peoples for thousands of years.

Heartwarming Introduction of Traditions to the Next Generation... In a heartwarming video that has captured the essence of family and cultural values, a young child is seen being introduced to cherished traditions by their family. Although the details about the creator of the video and the adorable young participant remain unknown, the video stands out as a testament to the power of passing down cultural heritage from one generation to another. The video showcases a heartwarming scene, where the young child engages in traditional practices despite being too young to fully comprehend their meaning. The family's dedication to preserving and sharing their cultural customs from an early age is commendable and sets an inspiring example for the community. The video serves as a reminder of the importance of instilling cultural pride and values in the younger generation, even before they can fully grasp their significance. In a world where traditions sometimes fade away amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, this video serves as a reminder that the bonds of heritage can be nurtured from the earliest moments of a child's life. As we celebrate the heartwarming gesture of this family, we are reminded of the power of unity and the significance of traditions in shaping our identity. Let us all be inspired by this touching video to continue the legacy of our cultural heritage and pass it down to the next generation, ensuring that the flame of tradition burns brightly for years to come. Jai Shree Ram 🙏 #CulturalHeritage #FamilyTraditions #NextGeneration #CulturalPride #Legacy #FamilyValues #HeritagePreservation #PassingDownTraditions #UnityInDiversity #Inspiration #CulturalIdentity #GenerationalBonding