At the heart of this collaboration lies the recognition that healing justice is essential not only for addressing the historical traumas inflicted upon Indigenous peoples but also for combating the environmental injustices that threaten their lands and ways of life. Indigenous communities across so-called “Canada” continue to bear the brunt of the devastating impacts of climate change, from the loss of traditional territories to the degradation of vital ecosystems. As stewards of the land, their struggles for justice are intertwined with the fight against environmental degradation.

Sacred Earth Solar and No More Silence, an Indigenous-led organization based in Toronto, understand that true justice cannot be achieved without addressing the root causes of these interconnected crises. By centering healing as a fundamental component of their work, they aim to cultivate resilience and resistance within Indigenous communities while advocating for systemic change on a broader scale. Healing justice acknowledges the deep wounds inflicted by colonialism and reclaims traditional practices as a means of healing and empowerment.

Together, projects like the Hummingbird Lodge saw Sacred Earth Solar and No More Silence joining forces to install a 7.2-kilowatt on-grid solar system with sixteen panels. This initiative provided No More Silence with a safe space where 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, survivors of gender-based violence, individuals with disabilities, and MMIWG2S families could participate in traditional healing ceremonies and reconnect with their cultural roots. The lodge prioritizes disability justice as well by being fully accessible to individuals using mobility devices.

Since installing the solar energy system, No More Silence leaders have shared with Sacred Earth Solar that they now generate surplus electricity to fully power their building. Their electricity costs have plummeted by over 95%, allowing them to redirect funds toward supporting Indigenous families, including those in Toronto’s urban Indigenous community.

“My family has a long tradition of serving in the community, and before my dad passed he gave his blessing to have the lodge here, finding the idea of a community healing space important,” said Terri Monture, a member of No More Silence who offered the use of farmland at her home on Six Nations of the Grand River for the lodge.