Another installment of Prescott Indivisible’s Narrative Campaign. This quote appeared in the Daily Courier, the latest in Prescott Indivisible’s series of monthly messages for 2025. The monthly message is a narrative campaign of progressive positivity that serves to raise awareness…
John Gonzalez is an indigenous artist, ‘Kanipawit Maskwa’ is his ceremonial name, translated it means Standing Bear.
John Gonzalez, a Taìno/Nehiyawak grandfather of three, is an educator, author, journalist, musician, poet and filmmaker, who has made notable contributions to the indigenous community in North America. His writings, films, music and activism have shed light on the plight of Native Americans and indigenous peoples throughout the world, including their struggle for self-determination, justice and equality.
He is the author of the book “Standing Rock Is Everywhere,” which is a personal narrative of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s protest against the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
John Gonzalez is also the founder of the Standing Bear Network, a media initiative which rose out of the Standing Rock occupation, “elevating indigenous voices.” The network’s mission is to promote, protect, and defend the rights of native peoples, their land, water, and natural resources.
Gonzalez’s work, music, storytelling and activism have helped to amplify the voices of indigenous peoples and raise awareness for environmental justice.