Indigenous Allyship Course: ‘To Make Good Friends’

Mamook Sikhs, a Chinook Wawa phrase meaning “To Make Good Friends,” reflects the spirit of allyship this course seeks to cultivate. Wherever we are in the Americas, we stand on Indigenous land; here in Seattle, this is the unceded territory of the Duwamish people. Chinook Wawa, once the most widely used trade language across the coastal regions of what is now Washington and Oregon, reminds us of the long-standing connections that have shaped this land. With Mamook Sikhs, we invite participants to learn, respect, and actively support Indigenous communities in meaningful ways.

Course Overview

This Indigenous Allyship Workshop educates participants on the true history of America from Indigenous perspectives, tracing the impacts of colonization from time immemorial to today. The workshop challenges participants to examine their own privilege and explore the realities of settler colonialism, land theft, and cultural exploitation. Through education, connection, and a powerful call to action, participants gain insight into the urgent need for allyship with Indigenous communities to address systemic injustices and the climate crisis. This workshop provides actionable steps for operationalizing allyship, centering Indigenous leadership, and actively supporting Native communities in the fight for justice and a sustainable future.

Allyship Workshop Goals

Educate: We share the full truth of American history from an Indigenous perspective. We walk through the timeline and enduring impacts of colonization on Native communities.

Challenge:  We critically examine concepts like white privilege, white supremacy, and settler colonialism, in contrast with Indigenous communities who continue to be marginalized today. 

Connect: We build a deeper understanding of how settler colonialism, land and resource theft, and cultural erasure contribute to the systemic injustices that continue today.  

Call to Action: We learn actionable ways to practice allyship. We seek to cultivate accomplices committed to advancing environmental justice, addressing health and wealth disparities, and confronting gender-based violence. Participants will leave equipped with practical steps to support Indigenous leadership, amplify Native voices, and join in the fight for a just and sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the workshop interactive or presentation-style?

The workshop is designed to be interactive, with a strong emphasis on group discussions and small group activities. We typically begin with an introductory group discussion, followed by deeper exploration in smaller groups for more focused engagement. The workshop can be delivered in-person, online, or in a hybrid format.

When do you hold Mamook Sikhs? 

We schedule workshops seasonally and on an as-requested basis.

Is it possible to have specific topics covered that relate to the work of our group or organization?

Yes! We usually will connect with you in a pre-workshop meeting for us to understand your specific needs. We specialize in the sectors of philanthropy, environmental conservation, non-profits and government agencies. 

How long is a Mamook Sikhs workshop? 

The full Mamook Sikhs course is a deep experience over 2 half-days.  We also offer a 1 half-day training.

How much does your workshop cost?

We offer this Allyship Training on a donation basis, but most groups contribute ~ $5,000 for a half-day workshop, and ~$7500 for the full course over 2 half-days.