Introducing Indigenous Futures Society

The Sierra Fund Becomes Indigenous Futures Society, Marking a Historic Shift Toward Indigenous Leadership in the Sierra Nevada

Auburn, CA — The homelands of the Sierra Nevada are sacred. The Indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada bioregion, have since time immemorial served as guardians of the lands, waters and all living beings within this sacred territory. Recognizing this, after more than 20 years as a trusted voice for environmental and community health in California’s Sierra Nevada, The Sierra Fund has rebranded as Indigenous Futures Society. This rebranding marks a profound shift in leadership, purpose, and identity—one rooted in the vision and values of Indigenous communities.

In September 2024, the organization appointed respected Indigenous leader Brian Wallace (Washoe/Nisenan) as ICEO and embraced a new strategic direction guided by Indigenous governance, values, and knowledge systems. The Board of Directors voted unanimously to transition to a 75% Indigenous-majority body — marking a historic and intentional commitment to centering Native leadership and lifeways in stewarding the future of the Sierra Nevada.

The name Indigenous Futures Society emerged from conversations with Elders, Tribal leaders and knowledge bearers, and allies. It honors the deep and enduring relationship between Indigenous communities and the land and affirms a vision where ecological restoration and cultural revitalization go hand in hand. The organization’s new logo embodies the themes of balance, kinship, and ceremony. It features the overlapping profiles of an Indigenous person and a bear—a nod to cultural teachings, ancestral guardianship, and the shared responsibility to protect land and life. Fire and water, symbolized through subtle shading, represent the elemental forces that shape ecosystems and Indigenous cosmologies. The framing moon speaks to cycles of time, sky knowledge, and generational continuity. A new website is now live at www.indigenousfuturessociety.org, offering more on the organization’s updated programs, leadership, and impact.

“As we embark on this mission, we do so with deep respect for the past and a steadfast commitment to the future. We must listen to the voices of those who have been here the longest-the indigenous communities whose knowledge of the land is unparalleled” says Wallace. “By centering indigenous leadership, we are not only honoring the deep cultural ties that Indigenous Peoples have to this land but also embracing proven methods of sustainable land guardianship.”

While the name has changed, the organization’s roots remain deep. Indigenous Futures Society honors the legacy of The Sierra Fund and its past leaders—Elizabeth “Izzy” Martin, Joan Clayburgh, Dr. Carrie Monohan, and Shawn Garvey—while stepping boldly into a future shaped by Indigenous vision. “We remain committed to serving the Sierra Nevada with integrity and care,” said Wallace. “But now, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose—one that reflects who we are, where we come from, and where we’re going.”