The third annual Native Made Market in Rochester, New York, scheduled for Small Business Saturday on November 30th from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 60 Brown's Race, represents a significant convergence of Indigenous entrepreneurship, cultural celebration, and community building. This event matters because it directly addresses the historical marginalization of Native American voices in economic and cultural spheres by creating a dedicated space for Indigenous creators from across Turtle Island. The market's importance extends beyond commerce, serving as an educational platform where visitors can learn about the Nations and stories behind each craft, thereby fostering deeper cultural understanding and appreciation.
This year's event features participants representing all Six Nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy alongside Cherokee, Piscataway, Odawa, Navajo, Sac and Fox, and other Indigenous nations, including artists like Dawn Doctor, Taylor Bonaparte, Mary Homer, and Jerome Waterman Jr. The market's implications for economic development are substantial, as it provides direct support to Native-owned businesses and artisans, helping to promote sustainable economic growth within Indigenous communities. By showcasing diverse goods including art prints, jewelry, dreamcatchers, and textiles, the event demonstrates the viability and creativity of Indigenous entrepreneurship while challenging stereotypes about Native American economic participation.
The Native Made Market's significance is amplified by its timing during Small Business Saturday, strategically positioning Indigenous businesses within the broader local economy. The event's organizers have prioritized accessibility through ASL interpretation and live-streaming on Facebook, ensuring broader community engagement. Following the market, a free Community Dinner and Haudenosaunee Social Dance hosted by Native American Community Services extends the cultural exchange from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., further strengthening community connections. This comprehensive approach transforms a shopping event into a meaningful cultural experience that builds bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members.
Several organizations dedicated to advancing Indigenous causes will be present, including the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee, Our Voices Project, and the Indigenous Health Coalition, highlighting the market's role as a hub for advocacy and community organizing. The event's success is supported by sponsors including RocGrowth, Envision Productions, and Rochester Area Community Foundation, demonstrating community-wide commitment to Indigenous initiatives. Additional information about the market is available at https://linktr.ee/nativemadehq. The Native Made Market serves as a model for how communities can create inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity while supporting local Indigenous entrepreneurs, contributing to both economic vitality and cultural preservation.
