Music has always had a unique capacity to inspire social change through the use of emotive lyrics and melodies, with dedicated songwriters behind the pen. Throughout history, we’ve seen the impact music can have on social justice movements, that continues to this day.

As an Aboriginal Cree Canadian, Phyllis Sinclair knows the ins and outs of what it looks like to use her craft as a form of activism and tool to ignite more compassionate, culturally-respectful perspectives and ways of thinking. Phyllis writes “songs that speak to Indigenous realities and also point to the power of her culture’s spirituality, using astronomy and mythology to educate and support through hundreds of years of deprivation and mistreatment.” – Larry K., Say Magazine.

Phyllis Sinclair’s traditional name is Nikamonah Kakanawenitak Eskwew, meaning Songkeeper Woman. She was born in Churchill, Manitoba, and is a member of the York Factory First Nation. As a singer-songwriter, advocate, and teacher, Phyllis finds ways to open pathways to renewal through meaningful stories and songs from the treasured corners of her culture.