How to Support Indigenous-owned Businesses
going beyond a land acknowledgment
Indigenous peoples have lived on the lands now known as Toronto for thousands of years. The city sits on the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat peoples. This history is deeply rooted in the land, and it’s important to recognize and respect the ongoing presence of Indigenous communities in the area.
Supporting Indigenous communities goes beyond acknowledging the past—it’s about actively contributing to a more just and equitable future. In Toronto, as in many other parts of Canada, Indigenous people have a rich history and a deep connection to the land. Yet, despite their resilience, Indigenous communities continue to face systemic barriers that impact their social, economic, and cultural well-being.
This article guides those who wish to support Indigenous people, businesses, and organizations in Toronto. You can help empower communities, foster mutual respect, and contribute to a thriving and inclusive society by taking actionable steps.
Supporting Indigenous Businesses
One of the most effective ways to support Indigenous communities is by supporting Indigenous-owned businesses. These businesses are often more than just shopping places—they are cultural hubs that celebrate and preserve Indigenous heritage. In Toronto, many Indigenous entrepreneurs are making their mark in various industries, from art and fashion to food and wellness.
To find Indigenous-owned businesses, you can explore directories such as the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business or inclusive, local directories highlighting status and non-status Indigenous businesses. You can also check Instagram and Facebook using hashtags like #IndigenousBusiness or #ShopIndigenous or following groups like Shop Indigenous Women’s Market to find local entrepreneurs.
Toronto Specific
Toronto’s vibrant Indigenous arts scene is home to galleries like the Bay of Spirits Gallery and the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, where you can purchase authentic Indigenous art, jewelry, and crafts at The Cedar Basket Giftshop. You can also find Indigenous crafts on display at Craft Ontario.
A personal favorite, Aaniin products work to restore the Aanishabek language through unique QR codes that translate the glyphs used on their products. In addition, their online store features various Indigenous designers and entrepreneurs.
For those interested in culinary experiences, restaurants like Tea N Bannock or catering company Wiisinida (Ojibwe for ‘Let’s Eat’), offer traditional Indigenous cuisine with a modern twist, providing a delicious way to support Indigenous culture. Additionally, Indigenous-owned wellness businesses, such as Mother Earth Essentials and Roots and Raven, offer natural products inspired by Indigenous knowledge and traditions.
Ways to Support
Supporting Indigenous businesses goes beyond making a purchase. Here are some ways you can contribute:
Shop Regularly
Make it a habit to shop at Indigenous-owned businesses for gifts, daily essentials, or special occasions.
Spread the Word
Word-of-mouth and online reviews are powerful tools that can help Indigenous businesses thrive.
Engage Respectfully
Respect the cultural significance of the items you buy and appreciate the heritage they represent.
By consciously choosing to support Indigenous businesses, you are helping to strengthen the economic foundation of Indigenous communities and preserve their cultural heritage for future generations.
Advocating for Indigenous Rights and Sovereignty
Indigenous rights and sovereignty are foundational to the well-being and self-determination of Indigenous peoples. Sovereignty refers to the inherent authority of Indigenous nations to govern themselves and their lands, a right that predates colonization and is recognized under international law. However, despite these rights, Indigenous communities in Canada, including those in Toronto, continue to face challenges in asserting their sovereignty due to historical and ongoing colonial practices.
Understanding Indigenous sovereignty involves recognizing the unique relationship that Indigenous peoples have with their land, language, and culture. It also means acknowledging the legal frameworks, such as treaties and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, that affirm these rights. As allies, it’s crucial to support Indigenous efforts to reclaim and exercise their sovereignty, as this is essential for their social, economic, and cultural resurgence.
How to Be an Advocate
Advocating for Indigenous rights and sovereignty is a powerful way to support Indigenous communities. Here are some actionable steps you can take:
Educate Yourself
Start by educating yourself on the history and ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples, familiarize yourself with current issues like land rights, environmental justice, and systemic racism, and understand the significance of treaties and agreements and their implications for Indigenous sovereignty.
Participate in Local Activism
Join local organizations or grassroots movements supporting Indigenous rights by volunteering, attending meetings, or contributing your skills, and participate in land acknowledgments while learning about the Indigenous history of your area to recognize their sovereignty.
Amplify Indigenous Voices
Amplify the voices of Indigenous leaders, activists, and community members through conversations and social media by sharing their stories and campaigns, and demonstrate solidarity by attending events, webinars, and rallies organized by Indigenous groups. See list at bottom of article.
Engage in Reconciliation Efforts
Reconciliation is an ongoing process requiring active participation, including engaging with local TRC initiatives, supporting the implementation of the TRC’s Calls to Action, and listening to Indigenous communities' needs and perspectives.
Support Policy Change
Advocate for the implementation of UNDRIP at all government levels to support Indigenous rights to cultural heritage, land, and resources, and engage with local and national campaigns pushing for policy changes through petitions, letter-writing, or supporting Indigenous-led legal actions.
Support Land Back Movements
The Land Back movement is a call to return traditional lands to Indigenous stewardship. Support these efforts by educating yourself about Land Back initiatives and advocating for the return of lands to Indigenous communities.
As allies, it’s crucial to remember that Indigenous leadership should always guide advocacy. Indigenous peoples are the experts on their own experiences and needs, and it’s important to listen to and follow their guidance in advocacy efforts. Avoid imposing your ideas or solutions; instead, focus on how you can support existing initiatives and amplify the work already being done by Indigenous communities.
Advocating for Indigenous rights and sovereignty is not a one-time action but a lifelong commitment to justice and equity. By standing in solidarity with Indigenous peoples and supporting their right to self-determination, you are contributing to a future where Indigenous communities can thrive on their terms.