In this captivating podcast episode, fashion takes center stage as Rebekah Jarvey, an Indigenous designer from Montana, shares her inspiring journey and her powerful expression of culture through her new fashion line. Rebekah's presence at the Cannes Indigenous Arts and Fashion Festival in France marks a significant milestone in her career.Rebekah's line is a stunning representation of her Indigenous heritage, infused with contemporary aesthetics and vibrant neons. As a lover of fashion from a young age, Rebekah's creative journey began with designing clothes for her Barbie dolls. However, it was in 2020 that she made the transition into the industry as a designer, driven by her innate passion for fashion and her desire to make a meaningful impact.Born and raised on the Chippewa Cree tribe reservation in Rocky Boy, Montana, Rebekah draws strength and inspiration from her Indigenous roots. Her line serves as a vehicle for sharing her culture with the world, challenging stereotypes, and breaking away from traditional cultural colors. By embracing bold and unconventional color palettes such as pink and neon green, she pushes the boundaries of Indigenous fashion, redefining the notion of contemporary Indigenous artistry.Rebekah's line not only showcases her unique design aesthetic but also serves as a platform for educating others about the history and struggles of Indigenous peoples. She acknowledges the painful legacy of residential schools, where her great-grandparents and grandparents were subjected to severe abuse. The trauma inherited through generations has motivated Rebekah to use her fashion as a form of storytelling, shedding light on the injustices faced by Indigenous communities.Through her line, Rebekah communicates resilience, empowerment, and the beauty of her heritage. She acknowledges that not all Indigenous artists adhere to traditional designs and colors, embracing her identity as a contemporary artist who is unafraid to explore new territories and express her creativity authentically.As Rebekah and Ashley discuss the significance of Indigenous identity and the importance of understanding and appreciating diverse cultures, they highlight the transformative power of fashion as a means of cultural expression and storytelling. Rebekah's line serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities, reclaiming narratives and challenging preconceived notions in the fashion industry.Join Ashley and Rebekah on this captivating conversation, as they invite listeners to celebrate and embrace the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous culture through the lens of contemporary fashion.

Meet Kansas Middletent, a Lakota model, 7th Generation Warrior, Entrepreneur, Public Speaker, Actor/Stunt Rider SAG-AFTRA and advocate for indigenous fashion.Kansas shares his journey in the industry, starting from his early days as a model in Denver to walking the runway in France. He also discusses his role as a consultant in various areas such as indigenous crises, education, marketing, and public speaking.Kansas opens up about his background growing up in Lower Brule, South Dakota, and the challenges faced by indigenous communities, including lack of resources and high poverty rates.He emphasizes the importance of understanding and communication, encouraging listeners to ask questions and engage with their local communities.The conversation delves into the topic of addiction and its impact on families and communities. Kansas shares personal experiences and highlights the need for support systems and finding strength in family. He also touches on the power of prayer and faith in cultivating resilience.Throughout the episode, Kansas emphasizes the significance of fashion as a means of self-expression and empowerment. He discusses the connection between love and fashion and the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities.Connect with Kansas on Facebook CLICK HEREConnect with Kansas on Instagram CLICK HEREFind Rebekah Jarvey's clothing line that Kansas mentions at the end of the podcast CLICK HERE"The reservation never lacked talent. We only lacked resources." - Kansas Middle Tent"Being able to walk into a store and buy my kids something they want without having to worry about money, that's why I say I get to live my dream." - Kansas Middle Tent"Step into your power. Turn your pain into power and follow your dreams despite what anybody says." - Kansas Middle Tent4. "Indigenous fashion is not just about clothes; it's about reclaiming our identity and sharing our stories with the world." - Kansas Middle Tent"Fashion has the power to heal. It allows us to express our culture, our heritage, and our resilience." - Kansas Middle Tent6. "We need to support indigenous designers and artists. By buying their creations, we are investing in our communities and empowering future generations." - Kansas Middle Tent7. "Education is key. By educating ourselves and others about indigenous culture, we can break down stereotypes and foster understanding." - Kansas Middle Tent8. "Indigenous fashion is a movement of self-determination, reminding us of our strength, beauty, and resilience as indigenous peoples." - Kansas Middle Tent9. "Fashion is a tool for change. It allows us to challenge the status quo and redefine beauty on our own terms." - Kansas Middle Tent10. "We must honor our ancestors through the clothes we wear, celebrating our heritage and keeping our traditions alive." - Kansas Middle Tent

Introducing Amanda Wanotch In this intriguing episode of the Indigenous Fashion podcast, host Ashley welcomes special guest Amanda Wanotch, an international model and executive production assistant at the International Indigenous Fashion Week. Amanda shares her experiences and insights into the world of Indigenous fashion and ceremony.Amanda discusses her involvement in the Alberta Indigenous Fashion Week, a collaboration between British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. She highlights the work of Chelsea Richette, the CEO of International Indigenous Fashion Week, and their journey together in the fashion industry.The conversation delves into Amanda's personal journey in the fashion world, from her first fashion show to modeling in New York and Paris. She reflects on the impact of her Metis heritage and the deep sense of pride she feels as a Metis person. Amanda also emphasizes the importance of honoring and supporting Indigenous designers and models, providing them with a platform to showcase their unique visions.As the discussion unfolds, Amanda shares her perspective on the role of ceremony in Indigenous culture and fashion. She explains how fashion can be a form of spiritual ceremony, infused with meaning and symbolism. Amanda explores the significance of colors in her personal color palette and their representation of power, healing, and cultural identity.Furthermore, Amanda touches on the need to acknowledge and address the ongoing issues faced by Indigenous communities, such as the missing and murdered Indigenous women crisis. She reveals her upcoming fashion show, "Lips and Lashes and Legacy," which aims to honor the strength and resilience of Indigenous women and promote self-love and gratitude.Throughout the episode, Amanda's authenticity, confidence, and deep connection to her spiritual and cultural heritage shine through. Her unwavering commitment to healing, empowerment, and the elevation of Indigenous fashion leaves a lasting impression.Connect with Amanda on Facebook CLICK HERE Quotes:1. "Fashion is more than just clothes and beautiful people. It's a spiritual ceremony that resonates with who I am and what I do." - Amanda Wanotch2. "The work of International Indigenous Fashion Week is about giving designers and models an opportunity to showcase their unique visions and be seen within the fashion industry." - Amanda Wanotch3. "For me, fashion is a platform where I can incorporate my healing work. It's about understanding energy and embracing my role as an energy healer." - Amanda Wanotch4. "Indigenous fashion is about honoring our culture, reclaiming our identities, and showcasing the strength and resilience of our people." - Amanda Wanotch5. "In our culture, we have a deep sense of pride and gratitude for our heritage. It's about nurturing our roots and celebrating our connection to Mother Earth." - Amanda Wanotch6. "We must remember our past and the challenges we've faced, but we also need to focus on strength, resiliency, and the legacy we leave behind for future generations." - Amanda Wanotch7. "Fashion can be a form of ceremony, infused with symbolism and meaning. It's about weaving new threads of understanding and curiosity, bridging cultures through creative expression." - Amanda Wanotch

Welcome, dear listeners, to "Indigenous Fashion: Weaving Cultural Threads," the podcast that celebrates the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous fashion and invites you to embark on a transformative journey with us.In this space, we honor the beauty, wisdom, and creativity of Indigenous cultures from around the world, as expressed through the art of fashion. We warmly welcome you to join our diverse community of fashion enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and advocates for social change.Here, you will hear the voices of Indigenous designers, artisans, and visionaries who are breathing life into ancient traditions and reshaping the fashion landscape with their innovative approaches. Together, we will delve into the narratives behind every garment, unraveling the stories that are interwoven within the fabric.By listening to "Indigenous Fashion," you are not just engaging with style trends; you are embracing a profound opportunity to honor cultural diversity, challenge stereotypes, and support sustainable practices. It is through these conversations that we can dismantle barriers, foster understanding, and amplify the voices that have often been marginalized or unheard.Whether you have a deep appreciation for Indigenous artistry, a curiosity for different cultural perspectives, or a passion for promoting social justice, this podcast is your gateway to a world where fashion becomes a catalyst for change.We extend our gratitude to the Indigenous communities who graciously share their heritage and knowledge with us. It is an honor to learn from their rich traditions and empower their voices.So, welcome, dear listeners, as we embark on this enlightening journey together. Let us celebrate the colors, patterns, and stories that define Indigenous fashion, weaving cultural threads that connect us all.Thank you for joining us on "Indigenous Fashion: Weaving Cultural Threads."