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Here’s the latest dispatch from David, traveling with the group from Grassy Narrows across Canada. They arrive in Seattle on Sunday.

On our last speaking tour Judy Da Silva, a clan mother from Grassy Narrows remarked that our whirlwind schedule made it seem like we were touring rock stars. This time, on our trip across Canada towards Seattle, we have probably come as close as we ever will to true stardom. Before we set out on the road, the popular political punk band Propagandhi invited us to share the stage with them on their recent tour.

That was an offer we couldn’t refuse. Propagandhi is almost legendary among the scene of political punks who apply their DIY ethos to the fight for ecological, social and economic justice. In their 15 plus years of music making Propagandhi has gathered a devoted following of fans and critics across the continent who credit the band not only with being among the best in the genre, but also with lighting their spark of political consciousness through astute and hard hitting lyrics.

And that is how over 500 riled up Edmonton punks came to witness Gloria Keejick and Warren Ashopenace climbing up on stage immediately before Propagandhi’s headliner set. Now, you or I would probably be terrified of stepping up to the mic in front of a writhing mass of screaming punks. But it seems that once you’ve stood your ground in front of a 50 ton logging truck, you build up a sort of inner courage that doesn’t wear off. Warren and Gloria strode confidently to the mic and spoke the truth about the destruction of the land and culture in Grassy Narrows, asking everyone to be an echo to their voice.

For a moment the crowd was stunned, but as the speakers finished they erupted into thunderous applause – showing their respect and admiration for Grassy Narrows. During their set Propagandhi drove the message home, interspersing “F#ck Weyerhaeuser” into their lyrics and delivering short diatribes on the dangerous collusion between the state and the Weyerhaeuser in violating Grassy Narrows’ fundamental right to self determination. At the back of the packed house we passed out information with Amnesty and Friends of the Lubicon, collected signatures on our petition, and enjoyed Propagandhi’s energetic, enlightening and ear-splitting thrashing.