Yes, our clothing brand is designed by Mi’kmaw and Indigenous artists but is for everyone to proudly wear. This is a form of cultural appreciation; by wearing our clothing you are showing your solidarity with our communities and supporting the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre!  

The confusion between cultural appreciation and appropriation is a valid concern if you’ve never been taught to understand the difference. Traditional regalia is something we do not sell to the public; often these pieces are handcrafted and gifted or can be passed down generationally. Regalia is typically worn for special ceremonies and during a mawiomi (powwow) because it is the extension of one's spirit. Every piece of someone's regalia is unique and tells a part of the dancer's story, this part of Indigenous culture is incredibly sacred to our communities which is why it is often not shared with the public. We have seen regalia mocked within the media far too many times; sports mascots, Halloween costumes and countless viral videos. When people mock or imitate a different culture for financial profit or social gain, that is cultural appropriation.  

Cultural appreciation looks much different. Respectfully attending community events (such as a powwow) and supporting Indigenous artisans & vendors is a form of appreciation. Purchasing handcrafted jewelry by Indigenous artists and proudly sharing about the artist when people inevitably ask where it's from, is cultural appreciation. Having meaningful conversations and making space for Indigenous people in your workplace/school/community is a form of appreciation. We are all learning, if you are unsure if something will be considered on one side or the other – the best thing to do is simply to ask and listen.  

For decades the Halifax waterfront has been known for hosting annual events and festivals to establish a sense of community in our small but growing city. This same waterfront has been known by the Mi’kmaw as Kjipuktuk translated to ‘Great Harbor’. Since time immemorial Kjipuktuk had been a central hub for trade, transportation and most importantly, community.  

Our goal is to reinstate the Mi’kmaw presence on our ancestral lands by showcasing the resilience our people carry through their artwork. Throughout history, legislation has been invoked countless times upon Indigenous communities to suppress their stories and culture. Just a few examples from the Indian act include prohibiting our ancestors from speaking in their native tongue, from engaging in ceremonies, from wearing regalia and even from dancing. Although significant damage has been done, Indigenous people across Turtle Island are proudly reclaiming their languages, indulging in ceremonies, creating & proudly wearing their regalia. 

Our signature motif is a design rooted in Mi’kmaw history. It features the double curve design which has been used in Mi’kmaw beadwork & designs since time immemorial. There is no singular definition of the meaning of this symbol because of the damage colonialism has taken on Indigenous oral traditions. Many view the two curves as the connection between themselves and the land, some view it as a traditional kwitn (canoe) and some chose to keep the meaning sacred within their communities. The K design is intentional, it is for Kjipuktuk which translates to the Great Harbour in the Mi’kmaw language. In 1749, the city of Halifax was founded within our territory; which violated the peace and friendship treaties and further expelled our ancestors from their traditional lands. Our design intends to spread the message that we are still here, a message that tends to get lost within the greater narrative of colonialism in the 21st century.