Floral "kokum" Scarf

Price
$16
Color:
In Stock
30" square scarves - 100% acrylic, hand washable

Where I’m from, in Treaty 6 territory, Ukrainian floral scarves have become  iconic among many Indigenous Nations. These days, you’ll even see these scarves integrated into pow wow regalia. Us nehiyawak (Cree people) call them “kokum scarves” because kokum means “your grandmother”, a reminder of our grandmothers and a symbol that we carry them with us, when we need them the most.

So, why the floral scarf? On the prairies, there is a vast history of trade and commerce between Indigenous Nations. But what people may not recognize is the history of trade and cooperation between the original peoples and settlers. In fact, the Ukrainian and Cree communities often worked closely together during times of major hardship and famine. Cooperation like this, between Indigenous Nations and newcomers, is a story that is found over and over again across Turtle Island. It was because of this trade, commerce, and cooperation that floral scarves became a symbol of the strength and hard work of our matriarchs.

Long ago, when Ukrainian people arrived in this territory, they brought with them beautiful floral patterned fabrics that were a natural compliment to the floral patterns found in Cree, Dene, and Metis beadwork. Our grandmothers adopted these patterns as they worked closely with their new neighbours to help each other. I guess that also explains why feasts in my community usually feature foods such as pierogies, and cabbage rolls, alongside our traditional foods." 

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Customer Reviews

Based on 4 reviews
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Y
YTC
Great scarf!

Beautiful material

C
Cailín Mills
Kokomo scarf

Quite like the scarf… the colours are bright. Now for a shawl size and I’d love it.

B
Brandi Nordstrom
Beautiful

So lovely

C
Customer
Beautiful but limited

I would say that the Kokum scarf was very near perfect. The colors and pattern are beautiful. I am fully enjoying my purchase. Though, I wish that it was a little bit longer as well as a little bit wider. I have found the number of ways to wrap and tie (style) the scarf to be limited. I am very pleased with my purchase and encourage your team to keep up the great work. Have a great day!

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