Acknowledgments 

Acknowledgment

I (Ashley D.) acknowledge that I am descended from mixed Irish, French, and Hungarian immigrant heritage and currently reside and operate on lands belonging to the Anishinaabeg Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations, comprised of the Ojibway, Odawa, and Potawatomie Peoples.  As such I acknowledge that I have been afforded privileges and a social position as a: young, white, Canadian, woman, who is LGBTQ2S+, neurodivergent, disabled, an entrepreneur, student, teacher, homeowner, activist, and environmentalist.

My position allows me to be aware and learn of social issues surrounding race while not directly being affected by it. Because of this, I am able to challenge the systems of racial inequality to make a difference in today's society. My position also allows me to challenge social norms surrounding purist agendas regarding gender norms, sexuality, and gender identity and as such myself, my home, and my business are a safe space. As a person with a disability and neurodivergence, I am able to advocate for others regarding invisible differences and their needs. 

I have written this acknowledgment because these issues are important to me and I believe that these issues deserve to be recognized and require action. If you would like to discuss this further or would like more information I welcome peaceful conversations that are about growth, understanding, and learning. 

Below is a list of organizations addressing these social issues that would greatly benefit from the support of the community both monetarily or via clothing or supplies:

Proof of recent donations via receipt made to any of these organizations will garner a discount of 10% for select single service provided by The Den.

Thank you for your support in the community!