Illegal drugs, outside food or drinks, video cameras, and artificial noise makers are often the types of things banned from music festivals. But organizers of the Bass Coast electronic music festival are adding to the contraband list by also prohibiting aboriginal headdresses on festival grounds. And we couldn’t be more thankful.
Recently, the trend of Native American headdresses has stirred up controversy, with many critics referring to it as an insensitive misappropriation of a cultural symbol. You may remember the backlash that Pharrell Williams and Khloe Kardashian received earlier this year for wearing the ornate headpieces that are typically reserved for high-ranking officials in the Native American community.
In a statement reported by The Guardian, concert officials said they “understand why people are attracted to war bonnets. They have a magnificent aesthetic. But their spiritual, cultural and aesthetic significance cannot be separated.”
Taking place in Merritt, British Columbia, the four-day concert will be conducted on indigenous land, so it only made sense that organizers would respect the views and wishes of the Canadian aboriginal culture and prohibit ticket-holders from donning the headgear.
So far, the organizers’ decision has been meet with applause, with people taking to Facebook to express their support: “If only the politicians, the major pro sports teams, other 'mascot' having venues and the judges and courts could have that true type of respect,” one commenter posted.
Here’s hoping other organizations take note.
[via Jezebel]
