The 7th Generation Principle, inherent in Indigenous knowledge systems, dictates that today's decisions should lead to positive well-being and sustainability for future generations. My work addresses the widespread negligence of this very practical guide. I use the time honored tradition of portraiture to create space for my students to express their concerns, hopes, and identities. These 5 students selected their poses and represent the many who have contributed their voices in speech bubbles. This collaboration creates a platform for youth empowerment and intergenerational dialogue. Ivey (with the pink hair) titled this painting, proclaiming "Our future is bright, but it's also dark." My daily engagement with curious, open-minded children fuels a sense of hope. As Bell Hooks wrote, "educating is always a vocation rooted in hopefulness." My work embodies that belief and brings art, education, and activism to imagine a more just and sustainable world.