On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a profound discussion with DJ Free Leonard, Dolly, and Morning Star Gali, centering around the significance of Indigenous Peoples Day. The conversation transcended the traditional narratives often associated with the day, focusing instead on contemporary issues impacting Indigenous communities, their resilience, and their ongoing struggles for justice.
**Resistance and Reconnection**
DJ Free Leonard, a frequent contributor to Hard Knock Radio, shared his insights on the importance of decolonizing one’s worldview. “I’m working daily to decolonize my observations of life by applying native elder wisdom,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift from Eurocentric academic standards. He also highlighted the importance of understanding the cultural heritage that often remains hidden: “Through struggling for freedom and liberation for my cousin Leonard Peltier, I’ve learned about my traditions and my heritage.”
Dolly, who is both a survivor of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis and Leonard’s aunt, shared her personal story of trauma and resilience. Reflecting on her experience, she remarked, “It was an epidemic, really, and I am an example of that epidemic.” She urged listeners to acknowledge the ongoing crises faced by Indigenous peoples, adding, “So many people don’t acknowledge the seriousness of the Native American situation.”
**The Spiritual Foundation of Activism**
Morning Star Gali, who has spent decades in community organizing, articulated the spiritual foundation underpinning Indigenous activism. “All of our organizing, all of our campaign efforts, they all have a spiritual foundation,” she explained. Gali stressed the importance of community over individualism, saying, “In my tribe, we didn’t differentiate between ‘we’ and ‘I’; it’s all about collective responsibility.”
She also addressed the ongoing erasure of Indigenous history, highlighting the need for visibility: “We are fighting against invisibility and erasure, and that’s what we will do collectively as peoples.” Her call to action was clear: healing comes through community and collective memory.
**Acknowledging the Past and Moving Forward**
The discussion also touched on the historical context of Indigenous Peoples Day, moving beyond the typical focus on Christopher Columbus. Davey D encouraged listeners to reflect on the ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous communities and the importance of recognizing their struggles as integral to American history.
“Those types of challenges and atrocities should never just be glossed over,” Davey emphasized, urging listeners to engage with the reality of Indigenous peoples’ experiences. He expressed gratitude for his guests, recognizing the value of their insights in educating and inspiring action among listeners.
As the episode concluded, DJ Free Leonard emphasized the significance of community support for Leonard Peltier, advocating for his release and the importance of raising awareness around his case. “His case has been marginalized, and he deserves clemency,” he stated passionately.
This engaging discussion on Hard Knock Radio serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of Indigenous voices, the ongoing struggles for justice, and the need for a collective approach to healing and activism. Through their personal stories and shared wisdom, DJ Free Leonard, Dolly, and Morning Star Gali continue to inspire a renewed commitment to Indigenous rights and recognition.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.