03/05/2025
I can’t sit idly by.
I am temporarily shutting down my online store while I work on a new hosting system for my business.
As a Métis woman and an entrepreneur, I am deeply saddened by the recent public comments made by Shopify’s CEO, Tobi Lütke, and the openly racist attitudes and actions he has taken. In February, Shopify laid off the entire team responsible for supporting businesses like mine: “Shopify lays off team supporting Black, Indigenous, and women entrepreneurs” https://thelogic.co/news/exclusive/shopify-layoffs-build-black-dei/.
What is happening in the U.S. with the shutdown of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs also affects us here in Canada, which is why I feel compelled to take action and speak up. I have been with Shopify since I started my business 10 years ago, but I can no longer support a service that goes against my values. As it is well put in this article from the Globe and Mail: “The war against DEI will cost us all” https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/commentary/article-the-war-against-dei-will-cost-us-all/
Cutting these programs and labelling them as racist is an example of someone who began with privilege. It overlooks the reality that we do not all start from equal positions. “For people at intersections – disabled and q***r, Black and trans, Indigenous and female – the climb is even steeper. Progress exists, but the playing field isn’t level.”
I hope you consider these factors when you shop. Think about who you support, where you buy from, and to whom you freely give your information. While some choices are hard to avoid if you want to exist or shop online, we still have options. Today, I am choosing to take responsibility and find a more accountable way to continue my entrepreneurial pursuits and my passion for design.
As a result, my store will be closed while I work on this transition. If you want to place an order while the site is down, please message me. Otherwise, I look forward to seeing you all very soon!
