In the Northwest Territories, two advocates for the South Asian community expressed their lack of surprise at the racist backlash triggered by a recent music video, emphasizing that Yellowknife has the potential to improve its response. The controversial music video, which circulated last week before being removed, depicted a group of individuals driving cars in Yellowknife, brandishing what seemed to be firearms while lip-syncing to a Punjabi rap track. The online aftermath included a surge of racist and threatening remarks directed at South Asians residing in the city.
CBC spoke with individuals who labeled the video as “completely inappropriate” and “shameful for their community,” while denouncing the racist reactions it incited. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have initiated an investigation into potential illegal firearms activity portrayed in the video.
Silal Shafqat, the president of the Association of South Asians in Yellowknife, mentioned that such videos are reflective of Punjabi culture but deemed it unsuitable considering the rise in gang violence and substance abuse in N.W.T. communities. He stressed that visitors on Indigenous land, like Yellowknives Dene territory, should adhere to local laws, culture, and values. Shafqat expressed concern about the negative impact such displays can have on communities, emphasizing the need for better judgment.
Another perspective came from Sukham Dhindsa, a Yellowknife-based lawyer of Indian descent, who perceived the video as light-hearted and enjoyable. She interpreted the subsequent racism as a manifestation of generalized frustrations redirected towards the South Asian population amidst broader societal challenges like inflation and housing issues. Dhindsa advocated for mutual learning and cultural exchange, highlighting food and music as avenues for cross-cultural appreciation.
The video’s creator, contacted by CBC, mentioned the need for legal consultation before discussing the video’s production and reception. Meanwhile, Yellowknife RCMP confirmed the filmmaker’s cooperation in the investigation, emphasizing the alarming impact of the videos on the community and underscoring a commitment to addressing any perceived threats or acts of violence.
MLA Kieron Testart, representing Yellowknife’s Range Lake riding, engaged with individuals involved in the video to address the surrounding controversy. Testart acknowledged the video’s role in spotlighting public safety and racism issues prevalent in N.W.T. communities, cautioning against responding with hatred. He expressed regret over a Facebook post that inadvertently caused harm to the South Asian community, clarifying his intent to condemn criminal gangs rather than perpetuate racism.
Testart encouraged open, mature discussions within the community to address the sensitive issues at hand, stressing the importance of collective confrontation and resolution to prevent further escalation.
