Native American headdresses have become something of a trend at music festivals. However, they can be extremely offensive due to their cultural significance (not to mention they’re a huge obstacle to other guests’ views). Over the last year or so festivals have begun taking action to officially ban these headdresses. Osheaga Music Festival in Montreal is the latest to get on board.
A Facebook post from the festival reads,
“Please note that First Nations Headdresses are not permitted at the festival. The First Nations Headdresses have a spiritual and cultural meaning in the native communities and to respect and honor their people, Osheaga asks fans and artists attending the festival to not use this symbol as a fashion accessory.
Thank you for your understanding and your cooperation!”
About a year ago, another Canadian fest, Bass Coast, decided to ban the traditional Native American garb. “Bass Coast Festival takes place on indigenous land and we respect the dignity of aboriginal people,” they explained. “We have consulted with aboriginal people in British Columbia on this issue and we feel our policy aligns with their views and wishes regarding the subject. Their opinion is what matters to us.”
Bass Coast Festival in Canada Will Ban Native American Headdresses
An MTV News article that went in depth on the matter referenced Simon Moya-Smith, a Native American of the Oglala Lakota Nation. “The headdress is reserved for our revered elders who, through their selflessness and leadership, have earned the right to wear one,” he explained. “Wearing one, even an imitation headdress, belittles what our elders have spent a lifetime to earn.”
Osheaga will take place, headdress-free, July 31-August 2 featuring music from The Black Keys, Kendrick Lamar, Florence and the Machine, St. Vincent, Alt-J, The Decemberists, Hot Chip, Weezer, Nas, Tyler the Creator and many more.
[Via Pigeons and Planes]