What a strong connection to Native American heritage looks like in business

Native Commerce News is sponsored by the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma (AICCO), dedicated to expanding Indian Country commerce across the globe.  

Written By: Brittany Harlow

(NATIONAL) Just as a business owner inherits the strongest traits and characteristics from those before them, so will a business inherit these from their owner.

For Native American business owners, honoring a strong connection to cultural heritage manifests in ways such as job creation for other Native Americans, planning positive outcomes for future generations, and reinvesting in your tribal community.

My Tribe Print and Promo, LLC., one of dozens of AICCO Native businesses from all over the country, offers an extensive repertoire of print capabilities as well as promotional gear like apparel, bags, and even customizable health items.

Owner Tricia Williams is a citizen of Wyandotte Nation, a federally recognized Native American tribe headquartered in Wyandotte, Oklahoma. According to the Wyandotte Nation website, there are two other bands of Wyandot people, the Wyandot of Anderdon Nation located in Michigan, and the Wyandot Nation of Kansas.

“We are the same people separated by fate, the passing of time and choices made by our ancestors,” the website states.

Wyandotte Nation was also reportedly instrumental in the founding of Detroit, Michigan, and Kansas City, Kansas, the latter of which was called Wyandotte City in the past.

At My Tribe, their commitment to honoring Native American heritage extends far beyond offering quality products.

“Through partnerships with Title VI programs for Native American tribes, domestic violence awareness initiatives, police departments, and family services departments, we've woven our business into a tapestry of support, advocacy, and cultural celebration,” Williams said. “From apparel printing for the Shop with a Cop program benefiting the Wyandotte Nation to crafting Champion backpacks for children through the Bearskin Health and Wellness Center, we aim to make a positive impact and support critical community initiatives.”

Williams told us the My Tribe logo was also designed with several Wyandotte cultural elements, including a mossback turtle that pays homage to their world origin story and a willow branch wreath that signifies the perpetual renewal of life.

“The weathered text symbolizes all of the trials and tribulations that my tribe, as well as myself personally, have weathered and have come back strong from,” Williams said.

My Tribe recently hired a new Account Executive, another proud Wyandotte Nation Citizen, exemplifying their commitment to fostering talent within their heritage.

“Beyond our business endeavors, our brand serves as a gateway to Native American history and culture,” Williams said. “At My Tribe Print and Promo, LLC., we're not just a business; we're advocates, partners, and champions of Native American heritage, committed to fostering empowerment, celebrating cultures, and leaving a meaningful legacy across communities nationwide.”

To learn more about My Tribe, visit http://mytribepnp.com