The Vision of Lacrosse Player Jeremy Thompson and the Thompson Brothers’ 4 The Future Foundation

On Indigenous Peoples' Day, the Westminster community had the privilege of hearing from Jeremy Thompson, a professional lacrosse player and a passionate advocate for Indigenous youth. As a member of the Hawk Clan of the Onondaga Confederacy of the Six Nations, Jeremy embodies the rich traditions and cultural significance of lacrosse, which he views as much more than just a sport. For Thompson, it has played an integral part of his identity and heritage.

Thompson is the founder of the Thompson Brothers’ 4 The Future Foundation, an organization dedicated to inspiring Indigenous and underserved youth through the lens of athletics and cultural pride. In his own journey, Thompson experienced firsthand the challenges faced by many Indigenous youth. His father graduated high school and his mother did not, both wanted more for their own children. Thompson’s early education in an all-immersion Mohawk language program was both a blessing and a challenge, as he navigated complex language barriers. Despite these hurdles, he used lacrosse as an outlet and vehicle to further his education. He eventually earned a scholarship to Syracuse University and achieved recognition as a two-time Junior College Lacrosse National Champion and 2nd-team All-American.

Throughout his talk he wove lacrosse into the fabric of Indigenous culture, serving as a connection to the past and a tool for the future and emphasizing that many traditions are not documented but are instead passed down through oral history. 

Thompson also shared his personal experiences around the struggle many Indigenous people face, including issues related to substance use and mental health. He spoke candidly about overcoming addiction and the importance of healing through connection with nature, community and culture. His journey to sobriety spans the last 13 years, during which time he has shared his story and helped others focus on that which mattered most. This included encouraging youth to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams.

Thompson plays in both the National Lacrosse League and Premier Lacrosse League, but his vision extends far beyond the lacrosse field. Thompson is passionate about food sovereignty and reconnecting Indigenous communities with traditional agricultural practices. His work in greenhouses and pilot projects aims to restore Indigenous food systems and promote a healthier lifestyle. As he puts it, “We’re always planting seeds,” whether in the ground or in the minds of youth, nurturing the next generation’s potential.

 “By working together we can cultivate a future where every individual can thrive and achieve their dreams.”