Nov 24, 2021
In this episode I talk to my friend Tawny Cale about how her business was born out of a desire to learn an art and skill that is a part of her heritage. Sister Beads started because she had been learning Indigenous beadwork and was beginning to get requests. Then she convinced 2 of her 4 sisters to join her to keep up with orders. She's also an outspoken activist for various causes that are close to her heart, and knows you don't have to be perfect to make a difference. In this episode she shares the difference between appreciation and appropriation and shares some great Native makers you can follow. This is a jam-packed episode and I know it's going to leave you feeling super inspired.
Tawny (Trottier) Cale is an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe as well as a descendant of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and the Spirit Lake Nation. After graduating from Rugby High School, she earned a bachelors degree from Mayville State University and taught high school English for 1 year. Tawny previously served on 3 non-profit boards; 2 statewide and 1 local to Minot. Tawny is an avid beadwork artist and loves to share her culture with others. Tawny, her husband Tyrel, and their 4 children currently live in Great Falls, MT.
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/sisterbeads4
https://www.instagram.com/sisterbeads4/
https://www.tiktok.com/@sisterbeads4
Organizations and People mentioned in the episode:
Organizations:
Illuminative
National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition
Artists:
Hillary Kempenich
Holly Young
Bunky EchoHawk
Steven Paul Judd
Sings in the Timber Photography
Authors:
Louise Erdrich
Denise Lajimodiere
Vine Deloria Jr.
Joy Harjo (Poet Laureate)
Fashion:
Bethany Yellowtail
Red Berry Woman
Lauren Good Day
49 DZine
NTVS
Wakage by Shauna
Beyond Buckskin
Beadwork/Quillwork:
Jamie Okuma
Elias Jade NotAfraid
Sweetgrass by Heather
Bear River Creations
JD Creations
Additional Links mentioned in this episode: