Today is International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, first established in 1994 by the United Nations to celebrate more than 400 million indigenous people spread over 90 countries throughout the world.
From the Lakota dwelling in the United States of America, to the Maya of Guatemala, to the Saami of northern Europe, to the Maori of New Zealand, and more, the traditions of the world’s indigenous peoples often possess wisdom of significant value to their nation-state neighbors, ranging from spiritual teachings to food self-sufficiency to coexistence with the earth. In fact, indigenous peoples are currently the guardians of roughly 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity, showcasing how indigenous traditions can teach us to care for the world’s plant and animal life.
The Lakota have an interesting perspective on peace. Like our Israelite and Judean ancestors, they were constantly harassed by industrially- and technologically-potent invaders, who made and broke treaties with the Lakota en route to conquering and exploiting their homelands. Despite the resulting disappointment and enmity, the hope of the Lakota remained for lasting peace. However, as they observed, “True peace between nations will only happen when there is true peace within people’s souls.”
In the Lakota tradition, we wish shleimut—peace and wholeness—to the indigenous peoples across the globe. To learn more about how we can help indigenous wisdom heal the world right now, visit CLIMA, an organization supporting climate justice through indigenous efforts. You can also help celebrate International Day of the World’s Indigenous People with us by sharing what you’ve learned from indigenous cultures @wisela on Twitter.
—Rabbi Josh Knobel