Celebrating Native American Heritage: The Foundation of Our World
Sustainability may have become mainstream in the last decade, however, Native American communities have been advocates of eco-conscious living long before. They’ve embedded their love and respect for the land into their culture for centuries. While the world faces the terrifying reality of the consequences of ecocide, Native-owned businesses are pioneering this eco-conscious movement by creating products embedded in their ancestral practices of mindful sustainability and stewardship.
Jejune has compiled a list of creators who aren’t just offering eco-friendly alternatives, but who are sharing a legacy that honors this planet with every item made. We are long overdue to celebrate and support these brands, not only for their sustainable innovations but also for the rich cultural heritage and wisdom they bring to the conversation about living responsibly. By recognizing their efforts, we can honor a path forward that both preserves tradition and protects the planet for future generations.
CHEEKBONE BEAUTY
Courtesy of Cheekbone Beauty
Who Are They: Cheekbone Beauty is an Indigenous-owned beauty brand whose products are vegan and cruelty-free. Their packaging is eco-friendly and offers refillable options for zero-waste practices. They incorporate sustainable ingredients like plant-based waxes and oils, which minimize their environmental impact by using non-toxic formulas for their products.
Price Range: $-$$
Fun Fact: For every Sustain Lipstick purchased, they donate lipsticks to Indigenous youth.
NIAWEN SKINCARE
Courtesy of Niawen Skincare
Who Are They: This clean beauty brand is committed to creating plant-based skincare rooted in Indigenous traditions. They offer high-quality, eco-conscious skincare products including, serums, body oils, and exfoliants. They focus on sustainability by sourcing ingredients and using non-toxic formulas.
Price Range: $-$$
Fun Fact: The brand’s holistic approach to beauty honors Indigenous heritage.
NATIVE (DEODORANT BRAND)
Courtesy of Native
Who Are They: Native is a personal care brand that offers natural deodorants and other personal care products made from clean ingredients. They practice sustainability by providing plastic-free packaging options and using eco-friendly, cruelty-free ingredients. As the brand has expanded, they now offer body washes, toothpaste, and sunscreens.
Price Range: $-$$
Fun Fact: They offer fun, limited-edition seasonal products.
SISTERS SAGE
Courtesy of Sisters Sage
Who Are They: Sisters Sage offers handcrafted wellness products like soaps, bath bombs, and salves made from sustainable ingredients. Drawing inspiration from Gitxaala, Nisga’a, and Metis Nation heritage, the brand uses Indigenous plant knowledge and sustainable harvesting methods, ensuring that their ingredients are ethically sourced. The products are often recyclable and compostable.
Price Range: $-$$$
Fun Fact: The wellness brand was founded by two sisters, Lynn-Marie and Melissa-Rae Angus.
THUNDER VOICE HAT CO.
Courtesy of Thunder Voice Hat Co.
Who Are They: Founded by Thundervoice Eagle, this company manufactures handmade hats from upcycled materials and ethically sourced leather. They focus on durability in their products, which prevents waste and promotes sustainable practices.
Price Range: $-$$$$
Fun Fact: They also produce a variety of sustainable products like blankets, scarves, and footwear.
URBAN NATIVE ERA
Courtesy of Urban Native Era
Who Are They: The Indigenous-owned clothing and lifestyle brand uses vegan, cruelty-free materials in the production of their apparel and accessories. They avoid using animal-derived materials, ensuring a clean product line. The brand’s focus is to create long-lasting, high-quality apparel in the hopes of reducing waste associated with fast fashion.
Price Range: $-$$
Fun Fact: The phrase “You Are On Native Land” has become synonymous with the brand’s commitment to social activism and support of Indigenous rights.
EIGHTH GENERATION
Courtesy of Eighth Generation
Who Are They: This Indigenous-owned company produces incredibly beautiful wool blankets and other home goods. They use ethically sourced wool and other natural fibers that are durable therefore reducing the need for frequency replacements. The company works directly with Native artists, ensuring cultural authenticity while promoting a fair and eco-friendly supply chain.
Price Range: $-$$$
Fun Fact: First Native-owned brand to craft wool blankets.
SPIRIT MOUNTAIN ROASTING CO.
Courtesy of Spirit Mountain Roasting Company
Who Are They: Spirit Mountain Roasting Co. is a coffee company that focuses on ethical sourcing and ensures its coffee is produced in harmony with the environment. They avoid using pesticides and promote biodiversity. They also work to ensure the coffee farmers they work with receive fair wages.
Price Range: $$
Fun Fact: The coffee brand is passionate about supporting Indigenous communities and farmers.
Supporting these brands is the first step in honoring a community that’s been the foundation of our world. It also honors their heritage and values that showcase their respect for the planet and their commitment to safeguarding the world we live in by practicing sustainable methods.
