IFA Festival Fashioning Resurgence Symposium: Sustainability

Sheldon & Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre, 6th Floor

May 31 at 11:00 AM

Moderator: Kelly Drennen

Panellist: Dr. Bobby Luke

This panel addresses a critical dichotomy facing Indigenous people working in fashion, craft and textiles and those who purchase their works. The sustainable fashion movement offers immense promise for Indigenous designers, as it aligns with traditional values of environmental reciprocity. Yet, it also poses challenges, as sustainability measures can sometimes lead to increased costs, limiting access to materials, resources and markets that are integral to Indigenous fashion. Increased costs create barriers for Indigenous designers in reaching their own communities, with consequences impacting local economic sovereignty. This panel provides a platform to navigate this complex terrain, discussing how to maintain ecological stewardship while ensuring equitable access to sustainable materials and consumer access to Indigenous-made works. The panellists will explore pathways for creating equitable access to industry platforms and consumer goods within the context of sustainability.

This event is FREE. A ticket is required for entry.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time. General seating only.

Presented by the Government of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Sheldon & Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre, 341 Yonge Street, Toronto, Canada