Support Land Defender Nolan Young’s Family
Our young nêhiyaw land defender, Nolan, passed away on July 3rd surrounded by his family, relatives, fellow warriors, loved ones, and ancestors. He spent the last two seasons of life at the Fairy Creek Blockade, standing up for the land and in solidarity with the local peoples (including Bill Jones) wanting to protect the forests, waters, and relatives.
With the help from people on the ground and supporters, with the direction of Nolan’s family, this GFM is set up to provide financial relief for our young warriors family and relatives.
All of the funds will go directly to funeral arrangements, travel, care services, living costs, child care and anything the family deem necessary for caring for Nolan and his loved ones.
From Nolan’s family: “Nolan “Wondering Spirit” was passionate about life and sharing his knowledge of his Cree culture to those that crossed his path in life.
Nolan’s last journey from his rooted home of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan was on April 5, 2021 to BC. Nolan was a gifted man, his cousin Matthew Morin described him as a Bear who loved and protected people close to him. Let’s honour his Spirit by showing compassion and always remember to have love and respect for Mother Earth.”
Nolan (“Papi”) carries his spirit with such vigour, with endless laughter, and with fight against the injustices that plague our peoples as Natives.
Nolan was a part of a group of young Native peoples on the frontline, and holding it down at almost every single camp over the course of 3-4 months. He not only brought himself and community with him, but he built it every single day he was present. His warrior spirit came from a place of compassion, understanding, and undeniable determination for a future of love. Nolan was a warrior who showed up when the call went out, and showed by example how to assert himself as a protector. He also showed all of us what it means to be a friend, a relative, and a leader that leaves no one behind.
There are hundreds of people that Nolan influenced, and this work at the camps or on the frontlines would not have happened or been as powerful without Nolan. We will be carrying on that legacy Nolan demonstrated, and continue to stand up and speak truth - and act upon it.
Remember, this is a time for grief and healing. Please respect the family’s privacy, along with the time needed for relatives, friends, and warriors to process. As Native peoples we have protocols around death, so respect what is being asked for Nolan’s spirit. For questions or messages, please send them here in order to minimize bombardment of family and friends.
Kleco/Hychka/Hiy Hiy/Thank you.
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These words were written by xʷ is xʷ čaa, as well as Nolan's family. I have been asked by xʷ is xʷ čaa upon the direction of Nolan's family to aid in creating this gofundme. All funds will go directly to a member of Nolan's immediate family as the beneficiary, and all funding decisions will be made by Nolan's family. Thank you.
