Regalia: Resurgence and Resistance – Indigenous Fashion & Activism
The purpose of this study titled, Regalia: Resurgence and Resistance – Indigenous Fashion& Activism or RRRIFA, is to investigate what decolonization means to Haudenosaunee people and if or how we should decolonize our ceremonial regalia. Colonialism has unavoidably compromised the materials, culture, and style of Haudenosaunee culture and regalia. Through Indigenous methodologies, autoethnography, and qualitative semi-formal interviews, the emotional and the sociocultural benefits of creating and wearing regalia are investigated. The connections to community building, kinship, and emotional healing surrounding Haudenosaunee regalia are also explored. The findings include the Haudenosaunee participants’ views on decolonization, and its relevance and importance in our ceremonies and regalia. Regalia exists as a visual signifier of the resilience and survivance of Haudenosaunee people, culture and ceremonies.