Resilient - Unisex Hoodie
Description:
'Resilient' Hoodie Designed By Andy Everson.
Available in Unisex Adult: Small to 2XL in Forest Green, 3XL in Heather Grey
Material: 60% Polyester / 40% cotton blend
"When I think about my grandparents, my mind turns to thoughts of resilience. I try to imagine what they went through during their lives and the struggles that they faced. They survived the great flu epidemic of a century ago and witnessed the increasing marginalization of Indigenous peoples in our own lands. They persevered through the illegality of the potlatch and came through on the other side disappointed, but still eager to teach their children the ways of their ancestors. My grandfather went to residential school and was punished for speaking his language. He later came back to K’omoks and raised my mom surrounded and immersed in the Kwakwala language. They were the very epitome of resilience.
I then think about their parents, grandparents and great grandparents alike. They watched as settlers slowly moved into their territories and gained control over their lands in the name of a never-seen foreign king or long-reigning queen. They saw their friends and family quickly suffer and disappear from introduced disease. They went to war with other tribes as greed from the new economy invariably spread as rapidly as any epidemic. Though our numbers dwindled to a mere 5% of our original population, we continued on because of my ancestors’ resilience.
Today, our culture is a well-worn, battered set of armour that surrounds and protects us. It shows the marks from all of the preceding generations. Dented and scarred, it stands as a testament to the old peoples' resilience. Our culture is a gift from our ancestors. It has withstood suffering, death, attack, malice, racism and attempted genocide and, yet, it still guides us to this day. Our culture is resilience personified."
FAQ
Where do you ship to?
We ship from Canada throughout North America and internationally. International customers are responsible for any import duties, tariffs, or customs fees charged by their country. Learn more in our full Shipping & Returns Policy
Who pays customs fees, duties, or tariffs on Totem Design House orders?
International customers may be required to pay import duties, tariffs, or customs fees based on their country’s regulations. These charges are not included in our product or shipping prices and are the customer’s responsibility upon delivery. If an order is refused due to unpaid customs fees, any refund will be issued only after the returned items are received in their original condition. Please note that return shipping costs and any loss or damage during return transit will be deducted from the refund.
Are Totem Design House products authentically Indigenous-made?
Yes. Totem Design House is proudly 100% Indigenous-owned and operated. All of our designs are created by Indigenous artists, including award-winning Northwest Coast artist Andy Everson, and the majority of our products are made in-house at our studio on K’ómoks First Nation territory. By purchasing from us, you are directly supporting Indigenous artists, cultural revitalization, and sustainable business practices.
Are Totem Design House products sustainably made and eco-friendly?
Yes. At Totem Design House, we prioritize eco-friendly materials and sustainable production practices. Whenever possible, we source organic fabrics, recycled metals, and locally produced materials. Most of our products are designed and made in-house to reduce our environmental footprint and ensure exceptional quality. Supporting Totem Design House means supporting Indigenous artists and a business that values sustainability, cultural integrity, and ethical production.
About us
Indigenous Woman-Owned
Totem Design House is a proudly Indigenous-owned and operated lifestyle brand founded by Haida and Cree entrepreneur Erin Brillon. From our studio on K’ómoks First Nation territory, we create products that blend traditional stories with modern design. Every purchase directly supports Indigenous artists, cultural revitalization, and sustainable business practices.
Guided by Indigenous Values
Totem Design House is more than a lifestyle brand — we’re a social enterprise. A portion of every purchase supports Copper Legacy Indigenous Empowerment Society, funding initiatives that uplift Indigenous communities and cultural revitalization. Through our products, we share the stories, teachings, and traditions of our ancestors, creating opportunities for education while celebrating authentic Indigenous artistry. Our work is grounded in sustainability, reciprocity, and respect for the land and culture.
About Our Artists
Our designs are created by award-winning Indigenous artists, including Andy Everson of the K’ómoks First Nation & Jesse Brillon of the Haida & Cree Nations. Each piece carries a story — celebrating our connection to the land, the ocean, and our ancestors. When you shop Totem Design House, you’re supporting real artists and helping to keep Indigenous traditions alive.