Indigenous Women at the Forefront: The Change We See
December 23rd, 2024
Creating Lasting Change for Indigenous Youth, the Environment, and a Sustainable Future
“...just remember a bird doesn’t sing because it’s talented. A bird sings because it has a song. The moon doesn’t only shine when it’s whole; it can show up with a single sliver of itself and still light an entire night sky. Sing. Shine. The world needs you as you are .” - Angi Sullins
HEALING WOMEN HEALS MOTHER EARTH
This series by the Young and Indigenous Podcast honors and uplifts Indigenous women as cultural stewards, environmental protectors, and leaders. Rooted in mind, body, and spirit, it supports women’s resilience and leadership.
Santana Rabang leads the initiative, amplifying Indigenous women’s voices through her interviews with leaders Alyssa Macy, Amy Bowers Cordalis, Ashley Bowers, Kayeloni Scott, Vanessa Castle, Francis Charles, and Molli Myers. Highlighting their work in culture, environment, and healing.
The purpose is to tackle challenges such as gender discrimination, limited resources, and systemic inequalities. Creating those spaces for leadership, mentorship, intergenerational dialogue, and building a thriving future for Indigenous communities. Listen to the first episode featuring Alysa Macy.
2025 Governor’s Inaugural Ball
This year’s Governor’s Ball will feature Santana Rabang, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and social justice, and Alyssa Macy, CEO of the Washington Environmental Council. Rabang is a leader in racial justice and youth leadership, while Macy has been instrumental in advancing climate action and Indigenous rights. In addition, she has mentored Native youth at Children of the Setting Sun, guiding them on voting rights, advocacy, and self-love. Their presence highlights Washington’s ongoing commitment to equity, sustainability, and progress as we welcome Democrat Bob Ferguson begins his term. Special shout out to Santana Rabang, you are doing so much and we are honored you are apart of Children of the Setting Sun!
PROJECT 2025, TIME TO WARRIOR UP, AGAIN.
As we face new political and environmental challenges, Native and tribal communities, alongside sustainability organizations like Children of the SettingSun, continue to lead efforts in protecting the environment and preserving cultural teachings like the "Warrior Up and Heal" which emphasize land sovereignty, traditional ecological knowledge, and renewable energy projects. Advocating for environmental justice and tribal rights remains at the forefront of the work we do, while empowering youth leadership ensures future generations are ready to carry forward these messages. Together, we can create a sustainable future for our communities and the environment. Keep posted and we will let you know when we have another Warrior Up & Heal gathering in 2025.
IMPACT REPORT 2024
As we finalize our impact report for 2024, we would like to share this excerpt.
“We are guided by ancestral teachings in telling stories to advocate, educate and amplify Coast Salish culture. We recognize the deep connection between the health of salmon, rivers and lands with the health of all people. By addressing climate change and social justice, we honor our traditions while embracing modern solutions for a sustainable future. Through film, community gatherings and research, we uplift our people’s voices and inspire the next generation of leaders. This work goes beyond preserving heritage—it drives action to protect and restore the shared environment for the health and well being of future generations. Your support fuels our mission to restore ecosystems, celebrate culture and create lasting change. Together, we can build a future rooted in tradition, equity and respect for the natural world. Join us.” -Darrell Hillaire
Help us spread kindness by sharing this newsletter with your friends and family. Together, we can build a stronger, more caring community for all.
TREATY DAY FILM FESTIVAL
From January 25 to February 6, 2025, we’re bringing you something special. We’re talking screenings of We Ride for Her, West Shore, Story Pole, The Basket Lady, and Award Winning Resident Orca, all presented by Children of the Setting Sun. This is more than just a film festival, it’s a chance to connect, reflect, and dive deep into stories that matter.
Catch it at, Silver Reef Casino, Mt. Baker Theater, The Pickford, Hibulb Center, and more. We will have special free screenings for schools so students/parents/teachers/auntie & uncle chaperones please reach out! Tickets go on sale soon, so keep your eyes peeled and your calendars ready.
RISE UP NORTHWEST A SUCCESS
Rise Up Northwest in Unity Convening (R.U.N.) 2024 was a powerful gathering of voices coming together to protect our sacred resources like water, salmon, and orcas. The Children of the Setting Sun recorded stories from our communities, while Free Borsey’s words echoed through the crowd. Adonia Cairns helped organize and amplify the artists, and Kayeloni Scott led workshops that inspired us to take real action. We left with our hearts full, ready to build on what we learned and keep pushing for the future of our land and waters. It’s time to turn our words into action and rise together for the change we need.
BIG UPDATES ON THE WAY
First off, we’re moving our Main Headquarters to a bigger space—more room to grow and even more potential to shape the future. Over at Setting Sun Labs, things are moving smoothly, and we’re gearing up for the next phase of development—plus, we’ve even put up some fancy new banners over the windows! And last but not least, a special thanks to the Tourism Commission’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee and the Arts Commission for approving a grant that’ll bring stunning Coast Salish art to the alleyway next to Setting Sun Labs. Imagine what we will paint on the walls, etch into the pavement, and just how good it will feel to have some coast Salish artwork in downtown Bellingham!
Children of the Setting Sun Productions is a 501 (c)3 non-profit
that relies on the graciousness of others. If you feel inspired, make a tax deductible donation.
Hy'shqe \o/
Check out our socials!
Have questions for us?
Email us! Info@settingsunproductions.org
Sign up to receive monthly newsletters!
