Hey there,
By asking this question I can see that you have some concerns. Listen to your gut… and let’s talk it through.
In general, I recommend that people buy Native art from Native artists. There are so many talented Indigenous artists out there to support! Native art done by non-Native artists without respect to the practice, history, and passage of knowledge is a form of cultural high jacking which takes elements from another culture to benefit or profit from. However, there are a lot of non-Native retailers who give back to the community by employing Tribal members and supporting local artists. It’s really your call.
Something to consider is weather a non-native person made the rug or is only selling it. In either case, there are two things to consider: 1) Cultural high jacking, and 2) Supporting Native owned businesses.
What is cultural high jacking?
Cultural high jacking is the adoption or theft of icons, rituals, aesthetic standards, and behavior from one culture or subculture by another without understanding or respect. This often happens to Tribal and other marginalized communities, whose cultural practices are treated as trends rather than being valued. For education and learning, it’s important to approach culture with respect, to ask permission when appropriate, and to support communities in keeping their traditions alive.
Why does cultural high jacking happen?
Cultural high jacking often happens when culture is treated as a product or trend, rather than something sacred and community-based. Traditions, stories, and designs may be taken without understanding, permission, or respect, especially from Tribal and other underrepresented communities. These cultural expressions can be seen as “exotic” or “stylish,” which leads to profit for companies, while the people and communities who created them are left out or overlooked.
Cultural high jacking is harmful because it takes away the meaning and context of traditions, ceremonies, and designs. When cultural items are copied or mass-produced, their history and spirit are ignored, and the deep connections they hold for communities are reduced to stereotypes or imitations.
Supporting Native owned businesses
Check out local vendors and Native owned and run shops and companies. If you’re not sure, ask. It’s okay to ask vendors for more information about the product or who the artist is and what Tribe(s) they come from. A lot of artists tend to sign their pieces, so you can look on the backside of things. It’s also okay to ask for information about the piece(s) itself, like what materials are used and if there is significance in its selection and design (there likely will be).
If you want to go the extra mile, plan a road trip to Navajo Nation or the Southwest. You can do your research ahead of time and see what shops might be worth checking out. And while you’re in the area, check out the local visitor centers or museums. They should have a list of any events taking place too, which would make the purchase of your authentic Navajo rug even better!
For more ideas, Simon Moya-Smith has created a list called 100 Ways to Support Native People, which can offer some straightforward do’s and don’ts that you can also consider.
Thanks for supporting Native people through their businesses and art! Keep rocking!
Auntie Manda
