The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have devastated communities, causing widespread damage and loss. As we grapple with the aftermath, we hold space for all those affected—including the Tongva, Chumash, and Tataviam peoples, who have stewarded their ancestral lands for centuries. While the exact cause of the fires remains unconfirmed, one fact is clear: It is important to listen to and support Indigenous-led practices and voices.
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge
Indigenous communities have long practiced cultural burning, a method of land management that promotes ecological health and prevents catastrophic wildfires. These practices come from a deep understanding of the land and its rhythms, offering profound lessons for protecting and healing the earth. As the frequency of wildfires increases, it is more urgent than ever to uplift and integrate these time-honored techniques into broader environmental strategies.
At the Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance (NAFSA), we are committed to supporting efforts that honor and restore Indigenous stewardship. Beyond solidarity posts, we believe in actionable support and are actively working on projects to assist recovery and advocate for traditional practices that safeguard our lands and communities.
Resources for Relief and Recovery
For those seeking ways to help, here are resources to support recovery efforts and uplift Indigenous communities:
Donate to Organizations Providing Relief and Support:
- California Tribal Wildfire Relief Fund: First Nations Development Institute provides direct assistance to Native communities affected by natural disasters.
- Center for Disaster Philanthropy’s California Wildfires Recovery Fund: Supports communities across California as they work to rebuild and recover from wildfires.
- California Wildfire Relief Fund by GlobalGiving: All donations to this fund will support wildfire relief and recovery efforts in California.
Learn About Cultural Burning:
- Good Fire Alliance: Offers resources and education about the benefits of cultural burning.
- Cultural Fire Management Council: Promotes traditional fire practices for land and community health.
- Indigenous Peoples Burning Network (IPBN): A support network among Native American communities that are revitalizing their traditional fire cultures in a contemporary context.
Support Local Recovery Efforts:
- Check local community boards and organizations in Los Angeles for ways to help, including volunteering and providing supplies.
- Participate in reforestation efforts led by Indigenous groups to restore burned areas.
Advocate for Policy Change:
- Contact local representatives to push for the inclusion of Indigenous fire management practices in state and national wildfire prevention plans.
Moving Forward Together
Recovery from such a devastating event will take time, resources, and collective effort. As we move forward, let us prioritize the leadership of Indigenous communities and ensure that their voices and practices shape the path ahead.
At NAFSA, we are working diligently to develop initiatives that will contribute to recovery and highlight the critical role of traditional ecological knowledge.
Together, we can honor the resilience of the land and the communities that care for it. Let us commit to a future where ancestral knowledge leads the way in protecting our environment and supporting one another in times of crisis.
About NAFSA
The Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance (NAFSA) is dedicated to restoring the Indigenous food systems that support Indigenous self-determination, wellness, cultures, values, communities, economies, languages, families, and rebuilding relationships with the land, water, plants and animals that sustain us.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Marian Bitsui, Director of Communications
marian@nativefoodalliance.org