Indigenous youth as agents of change on the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
Each year on August 9, we mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, a day established by the United Nations to promote and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples around the globe. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the richness of Indigenous cultures, languages, knowledge systems and contributions to a more just and sustainable world.
This year’s global theme is: “Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination” — a powerful recognition of the leadership and vision that Indigenous youth bring to our collective efforts toward justice, sovereignty and reconciliation.
At KAIROS, we honour and uplift the voices of Indigenous youth who are shaping the future of their communities, defending land and water, revitalizing languages and cultural practices and advocating for systemic change. Their work is grounded in ancestral knowledge and driven by a deep commitment to identity, community and collective healing.
As we reflect on this day, we are also reminded that Indigenous Peoples continue to face significant challenges including colonial violence, displacement, loss of language and ongoing human rights violations. Across Turtle Island, the legacies of residential schools, the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and gender-diverse people and environmental injustices remain urgent calls to action.
What can we do?
- Listen and learn from Indigenous voices and experiences
- Support Indigenous-led advocacy and justice efforts
- Amplify the leadership of Indigenous youth, women, Elders and Knowledge Keepers
- Respond meaningfully to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the MMIWG2S+ Calls for Justice
- Continue to build relationships based on truth, respect and accountability
KAIROS will continue to stand with Indigenous Peoples in Canada and around the world through education, advocacy and partnerships rooted in Indigenous rights and self-determination.
Let this day be one of recognition and also one of renewed commitment.
Together, we walk the path of justice.
By Brandi Bilodeau, Indigenous Rights Coordinator
