Indigenous art and culture are not trends. They are the living, breathing reflections of Nations, identities, and histories that have survived genocide, colonialism, and centuries of erasure. From beadwork to streetwear, traditional tattooing to digital design — Indigenous creativity isn’t just beautiful. It’s political. It’s ancestral. It’s sacred.

That’s why it’s so important — now more than ever — to support Indigenous artists and businesses.

At Resist Clothing Company, we’re proud to be part of a growing movement of authentic, Indigenous-owned brands reclaiming our stories, aesthetics, and economic futures. But we’re also seeing our cultures get stolen, copied, and resold — not by other artists, but by non-Indigenous businesses profiting off our identities.

This has to stop. And that’s where you come in.

Let’s get one thing straight: cultural appropriation is not harmless. When non-Indigenous people steal, remix, or profit from Indigenous art, it:

• Exploits Indigenous communities, especially when artists aren't credited or compensated

• Spreads stereotypes, often reducing sacred symbols to “boho” trends

• Distracts from real Indigenous voices, replacing authentic narratives with commercialized versions

• Undermines economic growth for Indigenous-owned businesses

Whether it’s mass-produced “tribal” prints at big box stores or fake “Native-inspired” jewelry on Etsy, this kind of theft is everywhere — and it’s up to all of us to challenge it.

Here’s how to do it right:

The best way to ensure your money is going where it should? Buy from the source. Indigenous-owned businesses reinvest in their communities, protect traditional knowledge, and bring the next generation of creators with them.

Look for businesses that are:

• Clearly Indigenous-owned and operated

• Transparent about who designs and makes the products

• Certified or recognized by trusted organizations like the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB)

• Partnered with Indigenous artists or community leaders

If you can’t find this info? Ask. Or keep it moving.

If it doesn’t say who designed it — assume it’s not legit.

If it uses pan-Indigenous designs, feathers, or dreamcatchers with no community connection — that’s a red flag.

If the brand profits off Indigenous culture but doesn’t give back — that’s not art. That’s exploitation.

We’ve rounded up a list of verified, respected Indigenous-owned businesses that are doing incredible work — blending tradition, innovation, and unapologetic Indigeneity.

These artists and entrepreneurs are out here making waves. Support Indigenous artists by buying from brands like these:

• 🧡 Aaniin Retail Inc.

• 🔥 Decolonial Clothing Company

• 🛡️ Red Rebel Armour

• 🌸 Kokum Scrunchies

• 💥 NTVS (The Natives)

• 🎯 Okema Clothing

• 🎨 Section 35

• 🌱 Our Indigenous Traditions

• ✨ Eighth Generation

• 💎 Beyond Buckskin

• 🌾 Lauren Good Day

• 🔊 OXDX Clothing

• ✊ Urban Native Era

Note: This list is randomized and non-exhaustive — there are so many more Indigenous creators doing powerful work. Keep exploring.

Every dollar you spend is a vote. When you support fast fashion or mass-produced “Native” merch, that vote goes toward erasure. But when you support Indigenous artists, you’re helping:

• Preserve languages, knowledge systems, and ancestral art forms

• Uplift Indigenous economies and entrepreneurs

• Keep culture alive for the next generation

• Push back against centuries of exploitation

If you're not Indigenous, you can still wear Indigenous-made art — just do it the right way. Don’t just wear the style, learn the story. Don’t just post the outfit, tag the artist. Don’t just show off the beadwork, show up for the people behind it.

Indigenous fashion isn’t just beautiful — it’s relational. It’s tied to land, history, ceremony, and survival.

Want to support the movement while wearing something real, bold, and meaningful?

👉 Shop our Indigenous-made collections at Resist Clothing Company

👉 Learn more about Indigenous art, activism, and entrepreneurship on our blog

And always:

📣 Buy Indigenous to support Indigenous.

📚 Educate before you appropriate.

🧡 Support creators, not corporations.