In this blog post, Olivia + Laura are amplifying Indigenous voices and sharing brands to support.
Land Acknowledgment
As Montreal settlers, we would like to begin by acknowledging that the land on which we gather is the traditional and unceded* territory of the Kanien’keha:ka (Mohawk), a place which has long served as a site of meeting and exchange amongst nations. We come with respect for this land that we are on today, and for the people who have and do reside here. We acknowledge that we benefit from this settler-state. Accordingly, through the support of these and other Indigenous-led brands and organizations, we are committed to highlighting the Indigenous culture and its people.
*unceded: land that was stolen from the Indigenous people by European colonizers without a treaty.
To discover whose land you are situated on visit www.native-land.ca
On this website, an interactive map that shares the Indigenous languages, territories and treaties active across the world. Some of us may think that Indigenous people only exist in so-called Canada. However, many groups exist across the world and have suffered the same fate. A great step towards reconciliation is recognizing whose land you live on and the people who were there before you, and still reside there. Learning how to pronounce this territory is also an important factor.
With recent light being shed on injustices against Indigenous communities, many of us wonder what we can do to help. The first step is educating yourself and recognizing your countries deliberate heinous crimes against native people.
The next step is being an ally and supporting the future generation of resurgent Indigenous people who are regaining and rediscovering their heritage. You can do this by buying and promoting Indigenous brands like those mentioned below. The Instagram and website have been linked for an easy access. Happy shopping!
Cheekbone Beauty
Indigenous-owned and sustainable, Cheekbone Beauty is a brand you need to check out. Known for creating high quality and cruelty-free beauty products such as lipsticks and palettes. We love the aim behind the brand: to create a space in the beauty industry where Indigenous youth feel represented and seen.
Blended Girl Cosmetics
Blended Girl Cosmetics was founded on the basis that various cosmetic brands and stores lacked representation for Indigenous people on any of the products. Blended Girl has created a cosmetics line which embodies her own vision for palettes. You'll want to get your hands on a palette during the next restock!
Manitobah Mukluks
Mukluks are the original winter boots of Canada. As an Indigenous-owned brand, Manitobah Mukluks are continuing a tradition that their ancestors began thousands of years ago. Their vision is to build a vibrant, global brand that makes a significant impact in Indigenous communities.
Section 35
Section 35 is an Indigenous-owned streetwear brand which uses art and fashion as a medium to tell stories. Co-founder, Justin Louis - a member of the Samson Cree Nation, embraced his passion for streetwear and fashion to create a brand that has collaborated with artists from around Turtle Island.
She Native
With a commitment to instilling confidence in all women through the teaching of Indigenous nationhood, She Native has built a fashion brand that inspires thousands of Indigenous women. She Native has committed to involving Indigenous communities and customers throughout the design process. Fashion that tells a story.
Urban Native Era
Urban Native Era is a San Francisco-based clothing brand whose intention is to increase the visibility of Indigenous people. They are especially doing this with the "you are on native land" collection that features caps, t-shirts and crewnecks with that same slogan written on them. Lastly, staying true to their Indigenous heritage, Urban Native Era is committed to creating their merchandise with sustainable materials to reduce their negative impact on the environment.
b. YELLOWTAIL
b. YELLOWTAIL is a Native-American brand and retailer whose purpose is to promote Indigenous entrepreneurship. They sell stunning clothing and accessories with the Indigenous spirit at the heart of their business. The founders of this brand are passionate about reintroducing native artists and entrepreneurs into the economic market. Check out their Instagram and website to shop their pieces.
Indi City
Indi City is an accessory brand that creates jewelry heavily influenced by traditional Indigenous regalia. Their accessories are intricately designed and showcase contemporary indigenous fashion perfectly. The creators of this brand, Angel & Alex, are intentional with their designs as they are paying homage to their ancestors and their heritage. We applaud them, and we also love their designs.
Ikuma
Ikuma is the Inuktitut word for light, and it is also the name of this Montreal-based indigenous business. They sell earnings made from traditional Indigenous materials, like seal skin or fur. At the moment, they do not have a website but are selling through their Instagram account. If you are from Canada, definitely get your hands on a pair of these earing and support a growing Indigenous brand.
Indigo Arrows
Indigo Arrows is an Indigenous-led brand that sells home decor products, like linens and bedding, created by Destiny Seymour, an Anishinaabe woman from Manitoba. The patterns and items for sale are elegant and inspired by her Indigenous roots but look great in all households. Want to see more? Check out her website linked above.
Thank you for reading this week's blog post. This was an important article for us, and we hope that we encouraged you to be an ally and actively support the Indigenous resurgence.
Share this post with your friends and family. Spread the word about Indigenous products. Let's be better than the previous generations.
Xoxo,
