A Winnipeg-based company specializing in Indigenous clothing has accused fast-fashion brand Shein of plagiarizing numerous designs. Michelle Cameron, the founder of Indigenous Nations Apparel Company (INAC), expressed deep disappointment and frustration upon discovering that Shein was selling around 20 copied INAC designs without authorization. The situation escalated when Cameron found out that even photos of her staff, including her daughter, were used on Shein’s platform without consent.
Despite reaching out to Shein, Cameron received an unhelpful response, leading her to consider legal action. The stolen designs, which often address the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities, hold significant cultural and emotional value for the INAC team. Of particular concern was a design for Red Dress Day, a day of remembrance for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit individuals.
In a statement, Shein declared that they promptly removed the infringing listings and initiated an investigation upon being notified by third-party sellers. While suggestions to trademark the designs have been made, Cameron highlighted the high costs involved in protecting each design. Each INAC design is meticulously planned by the Indigenous team, with royalties going back to the contributing Indigenous artists.
The issue of design theft is not unique to INAC, as Anishinaabe artist Jackie Traverse shared her own experiences of having her work misappropriated over the years. Traverse emphasized the challenges artists face in protecting their creations, particularly with the advancement of artificial intelligence making it easier for designs to be replicated and distributed without permission.
Cameron emphasized the importance of respecting artists’ work and seeking proper authorization before using or reproducing designs. She condemned the act of stealing designs and urged those responsible to act ethically and with integrity. She emphasized the effort and dedication that goes into creating these designs, underscoring the need for recognition and respect within the industry.