Music serves as a unifying power, offering moments of tranquility and unity. From traditional ceremonies to contemporary protests, Indigenous communities use music and dance as tools to raise awareness, foster solidarity, and challenge centuries of colonial oppression.
In the ongoing context of unearthing mass graves at former residential school sites and increasing encroachment on Indigenous territories, music plays a significant role in resistance efforts. CBC Music engaged in conversations with four Indigenous artists, land defenders, water protectors, and community organizers to explore how music intertwines with their activism experiences.
Logan Staats, a Mohawk singer-songwriter and activist, shared his journey of merging music with activism. Staats highlighted the transformative power of music in processing and expressing the emotions tied to frontline experiences. He emphasized how his music now reflects themes of reclamation, resilience, and the enduring impact of Indigenous resistance over the past five centuries.
Esther Maud, a member of the Orange Abinoojiinh Movement, recounted the poignant story of a sacred fire honoring children found at a former residential school site. The fire, sustained for 123 days and moved around Thunder Bay, served as a healing space for the community to mourn and pay tribute to the children. The initiative culminated in a powwow, providing a meaningful closure to the healing journey.
David Simard, a cultural leader and Indigenous performer, shared his personal journey of finding solace and empowerment through drumming and singing. Reflecting on past protests, Simard highlighted the role of music in mobilizing communities and fostering unity during challenging times. He underscored the communal and spiritual significance of songs used in protests and gatherings.
Elder Whabagoon, a water protector and land defender, emphasized the deep connection between music, nature, and activism. Drawing on her experiences of singing to the water and marching under the scorching sun, Whabagoon highlighted the role of songs in sustaining resilience and fostering a connection to the land. She stressed the importance of considering the impact of actions on future generations in the fight to protect water and land.
These narratives underscore the multifaceted role of music in Indigenous resistance, serving as a source of healing, empowerment, and cultural preservation amidst ongoing challenges and historical traumas.
