Toronto's Hidden Gem: an Authentic Indigenous Craft Market

Here's a fun fact. The only dreamcatchers that actually prevent nightmares are the authentic ones you can buy from indigenous artisans. All other dreamcatchers, including the ones at the dollar store that are made in China, were designed to give you even more nightmares. Of course I'm just kidding, but I'm serious about the fact that you should support indigenous artisans. When you buy authentic cultural crafts, you're helping to keep the culture alive. When there's a high demand for dreamcatchers, jewelry, and moccasins, more of those items will be produced. Also, don't worry about the cost. The items are handmade, so you're definitely getting your money's worth. It's also not considered cultural appropriation if you get your accessories straight from the people whose culture they are from. 

Lots of people I know would love to buy art from First Nations people, but they don't know where to go to find them. So I'm going to tell you about a place in Toronto. It's called the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto. There are always a few good products on sale made by indigenous people, as well as huge craft markets that take place around four times a year. You can also learn languages with the Anishinabe and Mohawk language lessons. It's also a great place to volunteer your time. I definitely recommend planning a trip now.