A solid friend with several familial links has written the following statement to which I have received permission to post on this blog. Cultural appropriators beware! ____________________________________________________ Gilakas’la Nał’namwiyut / Welcome Friends I have been asked to write a statement on behalf of my fellow artists and Kwakwaka’wakw “Kwakwala Speaking People” relations. Our nation would like to share our feelings about people who imitate our traditional art forms and label their work as coming from our respected tribes. Kwakwaka’wakw artwork, which includes carving, painting, designing, weaving, singing, dancing and story telling, are traditions that have been passed on amongst our nations from generation to generation from the beginning of our existence. The teaching of these “talents” or “skills” or as we call them “gifts”, are through mentorship and only select people are chosen to apprentice. Young people, who are recognized as carrying “natural talent” or gifts, a...
An Indigenous perspective on events that affect the Kwakwaka'wakw. A strong and proud people.