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“Activism is a torch that gets passed on from generation to generation.” -Robert Redford
Across the world, Indigenous peoples have been the stewards and caretakers of our Earth for millennia. Humble and grateful for everything our planet provides, they know how to tread lightly while honoring the gifts of nature. Their wisdom reminds us that genuine giving comes without the expectation of something in return. As we celebrate Thanksgiving here in Canada and Indigenous Peoples Day in the United States, perhaps it is time we reframe our concepts of giving.
Many Indigenous and other marginalized communities live far beyond the conventional networks of support established by well-meaning organizations and nonprofits. Some are nomadic or so remote that receiving any kind of aid or support is only possible thanks to the efforts of a handful of people.
Trusting that our actions can make a difference becomes even more challenging when we are disconnected from those who may actually need our support the most.
How do we give when we are not even certain it will reach those we want to help?
That question has followed me for the last 30 years to some of the most remote villages and hamlets in the world. Like everyone, I have dark days clouded by doubt and mistrust. It seems that everywhere we go, people want to take advantage of the chaos and prey on others’ vulnerabilities. So often, we find ourselves blinded by the cruelty of our world, with no hope that anything we contribute could ever make a difference. Yet, in places where people have the least to give, I have always found them to be the most generous.
Even in places with little infrastructure for giving aid and resources to those in need, I have found that there are always steps you can take to create meaningful change. For example, investing in the futures of women directly improves the health and well-being of their children, families, and entire communities.
Each time I go on a shoot, I give back to the people I photograph by sharing their stories and using the funds from my prints to support their communities.
It is a simple practice of generosity and gratitude gleaned from the wisdom of the many Indigenous and other communities I have had the immense honour of photographing over the years.