Michigan rockers Greta Van Fleet, particularly frontman Josh Kiszka, has been called out by fans for his use of Indigenous-style stagewear, leading the 25-year-old singer to offer an acknowledgment of his past appropriations, as well as a charitable donation in an act of goodwill.
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The Greta Van Fleet frontman was recently highlighted by Indigenous fans "and those practicing allyship" in the hashtag campaign #SpeakUpGVF, asking him to remove a series of photos and address the perceived transgressions, saying "this is upsetting and is ignorant as it upholds racist ideologies that Indigenous cultures are simply a costume, when they are sacred, and not open for appropriation."
Kiszka has since responded to fans with an explanation of his intentions and deep appreciation for the Indigenous community in his home state of Michigan specifically, saying in part, "I see you. I’ve taken time to listen and gather my thoughts. My appreciation for indigenous culture is bigger than myself. I recognize the harm that ignorance can have on marginalized communities, something I’d never want to perpetuate. Hate, disrespect and prejudice of any kind are not welcome in this community. As I’ve come into adulthood, I’ve been able to grow and learn. This growth has not stopped and will not stop here." Josh also announced he has made a charitable donation to the First Nations Development Institute.
Kiszka, whose account no longer features the photos in question, adds, "the Chippewa tribe has had a particularly profound impact on my life having been exposed to their ceremonies and customs during my early years growing up in Michigan. I have made a charitable donation [to] the First Nations Development Institute to help keep indigenous traditions like theirs alive and well. Should you want to support with me, please visit firstnations.org."
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In early March, the band added new dates to their 2022 Dreams In Gold tour, scheduling a total of 42 cities across the U.S. and Canada into November. Click here for tickets, and see a full list of expanded tour dates right HERE.
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