In conversation with Jeremy Dutcher:
Natalie King sits down with composer, singer, and artist Jeremy Dutcher to discuss the profound relationship between language, culture, coming out, and the dynamic role of urban spaces in shaping queer Indigenous experiences.
The dialogue unfolds to encapsulate the symbiotic connection between art, identity, and culture, emphasizing the pivotal role of relations, intergenerational knowledge and cultural identity in informing Dutcher's musical expression. Dutcher passionately explores the transformative power of intergenerational collaboration in music.
A focal point of the conversation centers on Dutcher's commitment to preserving traditional songs and knowledge through intergenerational dialogue, and the Kehkimin Wolastoqey language immersion school a crucial endeavor in the context of cultural continuity, a language immersion school founded by Dutcher and their mother Lisa Perley Dutcher. Dutcher further reflects on the healing potential embedded in Indigenous identity and music, underscoring the profound impact of artistic expression on individual and collective well-being.
Addressing challenges faced by Two Spirit individuals, Dutcher advocates for identity validation and education, emphasizing the role of art in fostering understanding and acceptance. The interview takes a poignant turn towards the broader implications of Indigenous identity in the context of colonialism, exploring themes of youth empowerment, knowledge preservation, and the enduring connection between Indigenous knowledge, ancestry, and time.
Dutcher's commitment to language preservation surfaces prominently as they discuss initiatives like immersion programs aimed at safeguarding languages. The interview concludes with a powerful reflection on the interconnectedness of Indigenous identity, language, art, and culture, as Dutcher envisions a future where these elements thrive in harmony, resilient against the forces of the colonial project.