The 4th annual Koksilah Music Festival is going virtual this month, and will be aired online March 20 (5 p.m. to midnight) and March 27 (1 p.m. to midnight). Organizers are inviting the public to join the fun with two days of family-friendly performances and workshops that centre Indigenous performers, artists, knowledge keepers, Elders, and youth.
Musical performances bring an inspiring range of styles from DJ Kookum’s magnetic hip hop, to the soaring vocals of Ta’kaiya Blaney, and the traditional songs and dances of the Quw’utsun Tzinquaw Dancers, says a press release for the event.
“All music uplifts the heart and soul,” says Chief Tousilum (Ron George), Quw’utsun Elder and organizer. “We look forward to sharing songs and words with you from our homelands. Join us for a celebration of the spring equinox on the 20th and a full moon on the 27th.”
Koksilah Music Festival works to honour Indigenous peoples’ connection to their territory, cultural identity, language, protocols, and laws. The festival also seeks to create bridges between different cultures and communities, using art as an educational tool to bring attention to important issues related to decolonization and cultural resurgence. Presentations include a panel discussion with Indigenous Youth on the topic of land defence and mental health, as well as a workshop with Terra Ethics Alliance about collaborative systemic change processes. Indigenous youth and families are also invited to join Charlene Johnny for a traditional painting workshop.
This event is free to all, though in a gesture of economic solidarity, donations are highly encouraged to be directed toward Gidimt’en Yintah Access (https://www.yintahaccess.com).
For more information about the event go to http://koksilahfestival.com
