Indigenous Musicians Thrive in Calgary’s Urgent Healing Initiative

UPDATE: The National Music Centre in Calgary has launched an urgent initiative this month to support Indigenous musicians in their quest for healing and artistic expression. Among the participating artists is Raven Reid, a survivor of the Sixties Scoop, who joins six other talented musicians in the Ohsoto’kino programming initiative aimed at fostering new music and skills.

Reid’s poignant music draws deeply from her childhood experiences, notably the trauma of being separated from her family at the age of four. “I was taken from my family, stolen by the RCMP officers and social workers at the time, and put into a children’s group home,” Reid revealed in an interview with CTV News. Her story is a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by many Indigenous people across Canada.

The Mikisew Cree First Nation member emphasizes the significance of reflection during the upcoming National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. “Truth and reconciliation begins with truth,” she stated, urging Canadians to open their minds and listen. “What I really want is for people just to listen and to have open minds and realize that life for Indigenous people on treaty lands is not the same as somebody who’s not Indigenous.”

The Ohsoto’kino initiative not only highlights the talents of Indigenous artists but also serves as a platform for healing through music. The program is crucial at a time when addressing historical injustices is more important than ever. As Reid and her fellow artists prepare to share their stories through their art, the urgency of their messages resonates deeply with audiences.

As the month progresses, the National Music Centre will continue to spotlight these artists and their journeys, reminding everyone of the vital role music plays in cultural healing and expression. For more about Raven Reid and her impactful work, stay tuned as this story develops.

This initiative is a call to action for all Canadians to engage with Indigenous issues, making it a timely and relevant topic as we approach the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. The healing power of music is undeniable, and Reid’s participation in this program underscores the importance of addressing the past while looking forward to a more inclusive future.