High REz Clothing
Sweatshirts
Why 1978?
The U.S. Constitution guaranteed religious freedom for all in 1791 but that right didn’t extend to Native People for nearly two centuries. It was only in 1978 that Indigenous Peoples, the ORIGINAL Peoples of this land were granted religious freedom. Not only this but they were also brutally criminalized for it under the Code of Indian Offenses in 1883.
This land is Native Land and the many native nations, far beyond the 575 recognized today, have very distinct worldviews that still had to make the case for their protection in just 1978 with the passing of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act. These sweatshirts are part of campaign to bring awareness to the rights and fights of Indigenous Peoples everywhere. This is a IF YOU DONT KNOW NOW YOU KNOW moment and I hope you as the person wearing these help spread this message like the good fire we need.
Wowasi Ta Háyapi – The high Rez Working Clothes Collection
(woh-WAH-shee tah HAH-yah-pee)
Lakota for “Their Working Clothes”
The truth embedded into the threads of this collection is simple and undeniable: this isn’t just workwear, it’s a tribute.
Our overalls honor the many ways that Native people find their work and heart work. Whether its doing the jobs that others wont do or doing generational work that others can not do like ironwork or firefighting, Native Peoples’ tend to be all around dimensional badasses. High Rez was particularly called to uplift the long history of Native ironworkers who walked high beams without fear like the Mowhawk Skywalkers from Kahnawà:ke and Akwesasne alongside other Native Nations like the Lakota, Anishinaabe, Apache, and Lumbee. They played a legendary role in building the skylines of New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago and Detroit.
This drop is for them and for all of us.
Overalls
ETHICAl Small Batch Production
These garments are made in small runs, using locally sourced, deadstock, and sustainable materials wherever possible.
We reject fast fashion. We don’t overproduce and refuse to be part of the labor practice that harm the environment and people. We have a relationship with the people that make our clothes, thus holding the power of its creation with great pride. Every piece is meant to last, to be worn, repaired, repurposed and passed down.
Design with Integrity
Our designs honor utility, history, and integrity.
From the cut of the overalls to the solid stitch embroidery on the sweatshirts, every detail is intentional. You are wearing a piece meant to educate and inspire. No shortcuts.