A teepee is symbol and significant element of Indigenous culture. When someone sees a teepee, what people are thought of? Indigenous. More specifically, plains people- which we know are not indigenous to this area. 

A teepee represents a lifestyle, the ability to create a dwelling merely on what is provided while remaining nomadic and earth friendly. The teepee holds sacred value due to its source and story. 

Looking the other way and allowing yet another “small” issue to not be a big deal is what allows the continuance of violated rights, trauma responses, and fragility to continue. It’s not time to look the other way and not make things a big deal. It’s the time to use our voice, protect our cultures, demand appropriate representation and protect our future generations. 

This element being at Shuga’s, after continued request of removal, is cultural appropriation. This place is not Indigenous owned or supported by the community. The lack of response is being heard loud and clear, we will not be silent. 

Thank you to those who have joined and please share directly, have the conversations and continue to be a voice for those who couldn’t.