Taylor Swift’s Toronto concert kicks off with a controversial “land acknowledgment,” sparking debate on the role of politics in entertainment.
At a Glance
- Swift began her Toronto concert with a “land acknowledgment” recognizing Indigenous territories
- The acknowledgment referenced Treaty 13 lands and multiple Indigenous peoples
- This move aligns with Swift’s increasing political activism
- Land acknowledgments are gaining popularity among liberals but face criticism
- Some native activists argue these acknowledgments can be performative and counterproductive
Swift’s Controversial Concert Opening
Pop superstar Taylor Swift has once again thrust herself into the political spotlight, this time at her Toronto concert. Instead of kicking off the show with her chart-topping hits, Swift opted to begin with a “land acknowledgment,” a practice that has gained traction among liberal circles but remains contentious.
Swift’s statement recognized that the concert was taking place on Treaty 13 lands, referencing the 1805 Toronto Purchase from the Mississauga tribe. The treaty, which involved the British buying land from Native peoples, now encompasses modern-day Toronto and the Rogers Centre where Swift performed.
Yes, Taylor Swift Just Opened Her Toronto Concert With A Land Acknowledgment https://t.co/V6Y8p5eS0a
— Daily Wire (@realDailyWire) November 15, 2024
The Spread of Land Acknowledgments
Swift’s actions in Toronto are part of a broader trend. Land acknowledgments have become common at various events, from academic conferences to sporting contests. Even the 2024 Democratic National Convention included such a statement. The practice has also seeped into the education system, with over 100 public school districts in the U.S. adopting land acknowledgment statements.
“We acknowledge that we are performing today at Rogers Centre, located on Treaty 13 lands. We acknowledge the First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples whose original and treaty territories we stand upon,” Swift said.
Criticism and Concerns
While some view land acknowledgments as a step towards reconciliation, others, including native activists, argue that these gestures can be performative and potentially harmful. Kevin Gover, a Pawnee Nation citizen, said they are often considered meaningless and may actually make Native peoples feel despondent.
Critics argue that these acknowledgments do little to address real issues facing Indigenous communities, such as poverty, lack of access to clean water, and ongoing land disputes. Instead, they provide a false sense of action that allows individuals and organizations to feel they’ve done their part without enacting substantial change.
Swift’s Political Evolution
This isn’t the first time Swift has waded into political waters. Once criticized for her political silence, she has become increasingly outspoken. She’s endorsed political figures like Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, and previously acknowledged “stolen” lands at concerts in Melbourne, Australia.
While some fans applaud her use of her platform for social causes, others argue that entertainers should stick to their craft and leave politics to the experts.
