POEM

I AM INDIGENOUS

I am Indigenous, proud and true,

So proud of my identity too.

This nature is my love, my guide,

So sacred are the things that there reside.

I am Indigenous, born and bred,

I love the waters, lakes, rivers, seas,

They give us life, health, and ease.

They nurture our bodies, hearts, and mind,

A sacred gift for all humankind.

I love the sun and the moon’s gentle power,

Mountains and hills connect me every hour,

Rocks and stones hold the ancestors’ ways,

Guiding and grounding me all my days.

Indigenous is a name of hope and light,

Of vitality, power, and truth in sight.

Indigenous is justice, fairness, and care,

Always standing against evil and despair.

I love cedar for purification,

Wiingaashk for its sacred grace,

Mashkikiiwinini to speak with Creator’s face,

And sage, Boozhoo, for cleansing and peace.

I respect the wisdom of Migizi,

I respect Ma’iingan for loyalty,

I respect Makwa for strength and might,

All creatures teach us what is right.

Indigenous wampum belts show unity and peace among us,

Indigenous medicine belts symbolize knowledge and sacred power,

Dance belts honor our achievements and our journey.

I will always protect my land far and wide

With my head always high with pride

I am the owner of this land

Evil can never destroy me and my men

We are the owner of this land

Tazeen Siddiqui

Indigenous Voice & Truth