Vision
A world where Indigenous people are
seen, heard, healthy and thriving;
and the earth is respected and cared for.
Seen
Being acknowledged and appreciated for who we each truly are.
Heard
Our perspective is being honored, respected and responded to.
Healthy
Having a nourished and vital mind, body and spirit.
Thriving
Creating a sustainable present and future where we can all meet our full potential.
Mission
OJI:SDA’ expands Indigenous visibility, land literacy and good health by using innovative methods of sharing ancestral knowledge.
Through media arts and authentic curriculum we focus on environmental protection, sustainability, community wellbeing, healing, and cultural vibrancy.
Who Are We?
We are an Indigenous women led, non-profit organization. We come together from diverse nations to collaborate in creating responsive educational experiences focused towards the reconnection to our traditional teachings, storytelling and media literacy empowerment.
We promote tools for self healing and community support, through land relationships and curriculum for public schools that are rooted in Indigenous perspectives.
OJI:SDA’ Sustainable Indigenous Futures is founded by Tahila Mintz, Executive Director - Indigenous Yaqui / Jewish media maker, ancestral scribe, educator and community organizer.
What does our name mean?
‘embers of the fire’
OJI:SDA’ - How is it pronounced? O-gee-stot
OJI:SDA’ translates to ‘embers of the fire’. Fire is the core of the earth, it is the energy of the sun, which both make life possible. Our personal fire is the core of our vital life energy. The embers of our fire are in connection with our ancestors before us and those to come afterwards.
The fire is the central point of each home and ceremonial community. In many communities, traditionally, when a woman moved out of her parents home to begin the next stage of her life she would bring embers from the central fire of the home to begin her fire in her new home.
OJI:SDA’ is where the energy for creation, transformation and manifestation are rooted.