The Yellowknives Dene First Nation and Association of South Asians in Yellowknife have each condemned apparent music videos filmed in and around the city that sparked concerns about their use of guns.
Production company Wildly Addicted Studio told Cabin Radio on Wednesday the intent of the videos was not to cause harm. RCMP have said the matter is under investigation.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Association of South Asians in Yellowknife said the videos “take place on Indigenous lands and in communities facing real and ongoing challenges with crime and public safety.”
“Sensationalizing gun culture through media is not entertainment, rather it is reckless,” the association stated.
“It disrespects those affected by violence and trivializes the trauma many continue to face in this region. Furthermore, it also disrespects the Indigenous peoples who host us on their traditional territories.”
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Although some of the people featured in the videos are South Asian, ASAYK clarified that they are not affiliated with the association, adding the material neither reflects its own values nor those of the broader South Asian community.
In a separate statement later on Thursday, the Yellowknives Dene First Nation said it was “deeply concerned” about the release of the videos, saying the use of guns and featuring of “imagery linked to gang violence … glorify harm, undermine community safety and have no place on our lands.”
“Filming this type of content without consent or cultural awareness is a direct show of disrespect to the Yellowknives Dene. Chief Drygeese Territory is not a backdrop for sensationalism; it is the homeland of our people, with history, spirit and meaning tied to every place,” the First Nation stated.
“Our values are rooted in respect and care for one another while living in balance with the land. These values stand in direct opposition to messages that promote fear or aggression.”
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ASAYK said the videos showed “a troubling lack of understanding of Northern, Indigenous and Dene values” while reinforcing stereotypes.
“We urge all members of the South Asian community and newcomers to take the time to learn about the cultures, histories and social expectations of the communities where they live,” the statement continued.
“We remain committed to working with the communities of Yellowknife and Indigenous governments to help educate newcomers on Canadian, Northern, Indigenous and Dene norms, values and cultures.
“Strong, inclusive communities are built on understanding and we all have a role to play.”
Chief Ernest Betsina was quoted by YKDFN as saying: “Our territory is a place of history, culture and life for my people. Any use of this land should reflect those values.
“Content that promotes weapons and violence runs directly against the spirit of our community and the respect we expect from all who visit our beautiful land. We appreciate the RCMP looking into the matter and taking appropriate measures as needed.”
YKDFN said it wanted the videos’ creators to “take accountability by issuing a public apology, acknowledging the harm caused and committing to cultural awareness in future creative endeavours.”
YKDFN and ASAYK share a connection in that ASAYK president Silal Shafqat works as YKDFN’s director of economic development.
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Since the videos’ release, there has been a flood of racist comments online targeting South Asians. ASAYK also spoke out against discrimination and any attempts to target the community.
“While we denounce the content of the video, we also oppose any attempt to target or discriminate against South Asians as a whole,” the association wrote.
“Accountability must be balanced with fairness, dignity and care.”
Ollie Williams contributed reporting.
