Cree kids become recording artists talking about mental health, friendship and culture – CBC

Nov 10, 2023

Recording experience culminated in a live performance in Calgary at the National Music Centre

A group of Cree youth from central Alberta are now recording artists sharing their views and experiences with the world.

The group is called Nikamo, the Cree word for sing, and includes youth ages 10 to 14 from Kehewin Cree Nation, Goodfish Lake (within Whitefish Lake First Nation), Onion Lake Cree Nation, Cold Lake First Nations and Saddle Lake Cree Nation in central Alberta.

It is the result of a collaboration between Kehewin Native Dance Theatre and the non-profit Make Music Matter to support youth mental health through music.

Rosa John, artistic director for Kehewin Native Dance Theatre, said her group doesn’t usually collaborate with non-Indigenous organizations, but she was excited by Make Music Matter’s commitment to youth mental health.

Read More: https://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/cree-kids-recording-artists-mental-health-friendship-1.7024081