As hereditary chiefs with the Wet’suwet’en nation sit down with federal and provincial politicians, musicians thousands of kilometres away were joining forces to support them.
Some big names took to the stage in Toronto.
It was a benefit concert that raised money for two legal fights that that the Wet’suwet’en Nation is undertaking; a judicial review of the approval of the Coastal Gaslink pipeline and the other deals is a challenge under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the climate.
Canadian and Indigenous music elite offered the gift of song and a message of unity at the concert.
Chantal Kreviaszuk, Amanda Rheaume and ShoSona Kish were on hand.
“We’re here at the great hall in Tkaronto for we are the stronghold here in Tkaronto and this is the first of many events lighting up across Turtle Island and around the world to raise awareness and funds for our brothers and sisters in Wet’suwet’en,” said Kish.
Also on the line up, Digging Roots, Bear Witness, Cris Derksen, New Tradition and Serena Ryder.
“The way that the world can be a better place is to just look at how Indigenous people have lived and are living their lives,” she said. “We need to start living that way.”
The concert was sold out organizers say nearly $15,000 was raised for Raven’s Trust – an organization that funds Indigenous legal challenges.
A HUGE SHOUTOUT to all involved in the We Are The Stronghold concert last night at The Great Hall….what an incredible event….great music….and great words….so many great performances by so many great artists….not enough space to mention them all….loved the performances by Digging Roots….Amanda Rheaume….Cris Derkson….New Tradition….Serena Ryder….to name just a few….Nimkii Osawamick hoop danced up a storm….an amazing young woman Zoey Pricelys Roy gave several powerful spoken word pieces….Julian Taylor did a great rendition of Willie Dunn’s I Pity The Country….hell Bear Wintness threw some beats down that even had this old bear strutting his stuff….again a HUGE CHI MIIGWECH to all involved in this great night. As the Auntie from Wet’suwet’en Nation said may we continue to stand for her nation and all Indigenous people….but to do so with love and peace in mind….using nonviolence….to do anything other would dishonour her community….and ourselves.