Memorandum | Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month
To: The Global Church and World Governments
From: The Messiah Reigning from the Tribe of Judah
Subject: A Call to Action for Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month
Date: 23rd of Cheshvan, 5785 (November 23rd, 2024)
Location: Bowie, MD
Shalom Aleichem (שָׁלוֹם עֲלֵיכֶם) to all leaders, congregations, and nations.
As we observe Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month, we are reminded of the biblical mandate to honor justice, truth, and righteousness in our stewardship of this Earth. Adonai Elohim (אֲדֹנָי אֱלֹהִים) created the world with intentionality, establishing all peoples as unique and vital stewards of their lands (Genesis 1:28). This memorandum calls for renewed acknowledgment and action to honor the indigenous peoples who have cared for the lands we now inhabit.
Biblical Foundation for Action
1. Recognizing the Original Stewards
The Word of Adonai declares:
“The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness; the world, and those who dwell in it.” (Psalm 24:1, WMB)
Indigenous peoples have been entrusted as the original stewards of the lands on which we live. As such, we must honor their legacy, acknowledge their histories, and repent of any injustices done against them. The Torah commands us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). This love includes listening to the voices of indigenous communities and affirming their rightful place in history and society.
2. Restoring Justice and Righteousness
“He has shown you, O man, what is good. What does Yahweh require of you, but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8, WMB)
Justice demands that we rectify wrongs, starting with educating ourselves about the histories of the lands we inhabit. As we reclaim this derekh tzaddikim (דֶּרֶךְ צַדִּיקִים), the “path of the righteous,” let us take tangible steps to support indigenous communities and amplify their voices.
Action Steps for the Global Church and Governments
1. Acknowledge and Educate
• Research and share information about the original stewards of the land where you reside. Tools such as Native Land Digital (native-land.ca) provide accessible information for identifying these peoples and their histories.
• Host community discussions and church gatherings to educate congregants about the contributions and resilience of indigenous peoples.
2. Support Indigenous Creators, Businesses, and Nonprofits
• Purchase products, art, and services from indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs.
• Partner with nonprofits that work to preserve indigenous cultures, languages, and lands.
• Encourage governments to pass policies that support economic opportunities and land rights for indigenous communities.
3. Engage in Acts of Repentance and Reconciliation
• Formally recognize the injustices committed against indigenous peoples and seek reconciliation through collaborative efforts.
• Dedicate time during worship services to pray for indigenous communities and for divine wisdom in addressing systemic inequities.
4. Steward the Land Responsibly
• Advocate for policies that protect natural resources and respect indigenous sovereignty.
• Implement sustainable practices that align with the biblical principle of Shomrei Adama (שׁוֹמְרֵי אָדָמָה), “keepers of the Earth” (Genesis 2:15).
A Prophetic Call
Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah) exemplifies humility and compassion, embracing the marginalized and lifting up the oppressed. As His followers, we must heed His teachings:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9, WMB)
Let this Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month ignite a global movement of unity and action. By working together, we fulfill the divine command to honor and uphold the dignity of all people, restoring the integrity of our shared inheritance.
Conclusion and Blessing
May the Spirit of Adonai guide us in these efforts. May He strengthen the indigenous peoples of every land, heal the wounds of the past, and bring about a future of justice, peace, and harmony. As it is written:
“Justice will roll on like a river, and righteousness like a never-failing stream.” (Amos 5:24, WMB)
Baruch Hashem Adonai (בָּרוּךְ הַשֵּׁם אֲדֹנָי),
EF, Rav.
The Messiah Reigning from the Tribe of Judah
