April 20, 2026
Indigenous store closes, speaks to ‘Indigenous struggle’, says owner
Photo: aaniin.shop
Recently, the Toronto Star reported that the Indigenous department store called Aaniin, located inside the Toronto Eaton Centre, will be closing down.
On the store's website, this Canadian first fully Indigenous department store is bidding farewell with the word 'baamaapii' on its front page, which translates to 'See you later' in Anishinaabemowin.
The article mentions that the founder and member of the Aamjiwnaang First Nation, Chelsee-Marie Pettit, had her City of Toronto grant application denied, adding another layer of financial burden.
Toronto, Ontario, skyline. Photo: Martha Troian
Pettit argues that for-profit businesses are often overlooked, making it difficult for Indigenous-owned businesses to sustain and grow. She is quoted in the article as saying, “It’s like people want to see us having to overcome every single barrier.” Pettit goes on to say, “They want to support the ‘Indigenous struggle.’ They need to see us struggle or else we don’t deserve support.”
The article further details Pettit's plans for the grant and her aspirations for securing it.
Currently, Aaniin is offering a 60 per cent discount on all in-house branded products.
As an Indigenous artisan, this is disappointing
As an artisan and creator myself, it is disappointing to hear this. When I read the article, I was moved by Pettit's statement about how it seems like people want to witness Indigenous individuals overcoming barriers and struggles. I hope this isn’t true.
Photo: aaniin.shop
Several years ago, my partner also gifted me a tote from Aaniin. On it, it reads, “Mino Giizhigad,” which means, ‘It’s a good day!’ The material of this bag is top quality. It is quite durable, and I know it will last for many years, hopefully decades to come. (My partner is great at selecting gifts, and not just any gifts but really unique ones from all corners of the world. I am very lucky!).
If you can, please go to aaniin.shop and purchase some cool merch before it is gone!
Support Indigenous, support artists, and support local whenever possible.
Chi-miigwetch for reading.
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