Make Your Holiday Shopping Count: 5 Ways to Gift Culture & Grow Our Economy

The snow is falling, the lights are up, and the holiday rush is on. As we scour the stores and sites for the perfect gifts, we have a unique opportunity to do something powerful: we can turn our holiday shopping into economic reconciliation.

We often see other cultures proudly rallying around their own—families flying specific airlines to support their homeland or tourists seeking out authentic cultural businesses to ensure their money goes to the right people. This Christmas, let’s bring that same fierce pride to our Indigenous economic enclave.

We don't need to rely on outside systems to make our season bright. By supporting our own, we build an economy that is self-sufficient, resilient, and vibrant.

Going Beyond the "Like": How to truly support the cause this Christmas

Sometimes, scrolling and "liking" isn't enough. If we want to build a strong Indigenous economy, we need to be intentional. Here are 5 ways you can go beyond regular engagement and make a lasting impact this holiday season:

1. Shop Indigenous First: Before you hit the big box stores, check the Waboos App. Whether it’s catering for your holiday party, a unique piece of art, or a gift card for a local experience, give your money to an Indigenous entrepreneur first.

2. Educate Your Circle: When you give an Indigenous-made gift, share the story behind it. Tell your family about the artist or the business. Word-of-mouth is the most powerful tool we have to broaden our circle of support.

3. Leave a "Digital Stocking Stuffer": A positive review is a gift that keeps on giving. Take five minutes to leave a 5-star review on Google or social media for your favorite Indigenous business. It boosts their visibility more than you know.

4. Engage, Don't just Observe: Download the apps of your favorite local businesses (and Waboos!). Active users help technology platforms grow. Using the tools our people have built is a direct vote of confidence in our tech sovereignty.

5. Be a Tourist in Your Own Territory: You don’t need to travel far to support the industry. Book a staycation, visit a cultural center, or buy tickets to a local event for the new year.

This season, let's wrap up our culture, gift our pride, and lift each other up.

Happy Holiday from the Waboos Team!