Herstory

Honoring our ancestors. Protecting the land. Indigenizing spaces.

How It Started

The Land Back fundraiser launched in 2020, spearheaded by Mary Big Bull-Lewis, an Indigenous woman who saw a need to Indigenize spaces and create momentum toward positive change.

This effort is not a say-all for all Indigenous People, nor is it a representation of a single tribe as a whole. We value individuality and acknowledge that there are differences of opinion.

While not associated with any tribal council or advisory boards at this time, the fundraiser respects all entities who continue to represent, educate, and honor our ancestors — and has always welcomed collaboration.

About Our Founder

In 2019, Mary began meeting with organizations, boards, and individuals to discuss the project and seek support. With no clear path forward, she formed an Indigenous-led grassroots nonprofit.

Mary served as the Chair of the Indigenous Roots & Reparation Foundation (IRRF) from 2021-2024. To create awareness and put words into action, she also utilized her businesses, Wenatchi Wear & Evergreen Gift Shop, to amplify the fundraiser and contributed proceeds from the sale of selected merchandise.

Mary is an enrolled member of the Colville Confederated Tribe; Wenatchi, Moses, and Entiat and a descendant of the Blackfoot Tribe. Born and raised in the Wenatchee Valley, she recognized the lack of Native American history taught in schools and committed herself to learning and reconnecting with her culture.

She often uses the term Modern Native to describe herself — having an urban upbringing in colonized spaces with non-traditional teachings, yet maintaining a strong connection to the land and a drive to reconnect with culture.

Today, she co-owns two small businesses with her husband and continues to live her purpose: Honor her ancestors. Protect the land. Indigenize spaces.

From Fundraiser to Foundation

Mary’s story is not uncommon in Native communities, where many face struggles to find belonging in colonized spaces.

The fundraiser quickly became more than Mary imagined. Within the first year it:

  • Provided productive communication

  • Created a safe local space to share stories

  • Offered opportunities for healing

By early 2021, the effort grew into the Indigenous Roots & Reparation Foundation (IRRF). With the guidance of community members like Steve Clem, IRRF became a nonprofit organization and has continued to expand outreach and fundraising efforts.

Community Support

Community members often ask how they can support local Native American tribes. Here are some meaningful ways:

  • Purchase authentic Native American artwork (Inspired Natives rather than native-inspired).

  • Donate to Native-led fundraisers and projects.

  • Make land acknowledgments with purpose.

  • Offer funding, cheerleading, guidance, and resources.

This fundraiser relies on community support to thrive.

Looking Ahead

IRRF’s ongoing fundraiser continues to amplify Indigenous voices while creating safe spaces.

Our vision is to build a community center for all Indigenous Peoples — a place to gather, practice traditions, dance, meet, and more. All funds raised directly support IRRF’s efforts to make this dream a reality.

Together, we will continue to use our voices to promote positive change, honor our ancestors, and care for the land we walk on.

We are the land, and the land is us.