First Nations artists on Tuesday launched a petition calling for a minimum quota of 5% Indigenous-language music on Canadian commercial radio airwaves.

The initiative, developed by Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-utenam (ITUM) and Makusham Musique Inc., follows the filing of a brief before the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), which calls for better representation Indigenous languages ​​on the air.

This brief was the result of a public consultation on Indigenous musical content, carried out during the summer of 2022. Among other things, we learned that, according to an unscientific online survey, 98% of 312 respondents were in favor of more space for Aboriginal music on commercial radio; more than 94% were in favor of imposing a quota by the CRTC.

The petitioners are of the opinion that a greater influence of music in Indigenous languages ​​will ensure their survival, in addition to supporting artists who choose to create in their mother tongue.

“The petition launched today aims to put pressure on the CRTC and the Canadian government to adopt the 5% quota, but we also encourage private radio stations and their listeners to be our allies and support us in our approach. . Together, we can achieve a true gesture of reconciliation, which requires the protection and promotion of Indigenous languages ​​and the promotion of Indigenous music,” said Mathieu Mckenzie, director of public relations and co-owner of Makusham Musique, in a communicated.