The Indigo Girls, the celebrated contemporary folk/acoustic rock duo, are renowned not only for their harmonious melodies and poignant lyrics but also for their unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism. This dedication, famously encapsulated in their assertion that they are "activists first and musicians second," has been a guiding principle throughout their illustrious career, shaping their artistic endeavors and fueling their engagement with pressing social issues.
On May 21st in Shiprock, New Mexico, the Indigo Girls extended their activist support to the Navajo Nation by headlining a benefit concert aimed at raising awareness and bolstering opposition to the proposed Desert Rock Energy Facility. This coal-fired power plant, slated for construction just 25 miles southwest of Farmington, has become a focal point of contention, pitting economic development against environmental concerns and the well-being of the Navajo people.
The concert, aptly titled "Honor the Earth," served as a platform to amplify the voices of grassroots American Indian groups actively working to prevent the construction of the Desert Rock facility. The event underscored the Indigo Girls‘ long-standing partnership with Honor the Earth, a national environmental advocacy organization dedicated to supporting indigenous communities and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
Honor the Earth, spearheaded by Winona LaDuke, a prominent environmentalist and two-time Green Party vice-presidential candidate, has been a vocal critic of the Desert Rock project. Since its inception in 1993, the organization has consistently championed the rights of American Indian communities and advocated for environmentally sound alternatives to fossil fuel-based energy production. Their involvement in the Desert Rock issue reflects their commitment to supporting the segment of the Navajo Nation that opposes the plant and promoting safe, renewable energy alternatives.
The Indigo Girls‘ association with Honor the Earth spans over 15 years, during which they have consistently lent their musical talents to raise awareness and funds for the organization’s diverse range of causes. Their commitment goes beyond mere endorsement; they actively engage in research and education to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues they champion, ensuring that their support is well-informed and impactful.
In the case of the Desert Rock Energy Facility, the Indigo Girls delved into the complexities of the project, carefully considering the potential benefits and drawbacks before aligning themselves with the opposition. Amy Ray, one half of the duo, articulated their rationale in a telephone interview, emphasizing their belief in Honor the Earth’s effectiveness in bringing awareness to critical energy policy issues.
Ray explained that Honor the Earth approached the Desert Rock issue with caution, conducting thorough research to gain a nuanced understanding of the perspectives on both sides of the debate. This commitment to due diligence reflects the Indigo Girls‘ dedication to responsible activism and their desire to make informed decisions that benefit the communities they support.
The Desert Rock Energy Facility, proposed by Houston-based Sithe Global Power in partnership with the Navajo Nation’s Diné Power Authority, is projected to generate 1,500 megawatts of electricity upon completion. Proponents of the project argue that it would provide significant economic benefits to the Navajo Nation, including over $50 million in annual revenue and the creation of 400 permanent jobs.
However, these potential economic gains are overshadowed by the environmental and health concerns associated with coal-fired power plants. Opponents of the Desert Rock facility, including the Indigo Girls and Honor the Earth, point to the already elevated ozone levels and mercury contamination in the region, arguing that the plant would exacerbate these problems and further burden the Navajo people with the consequences of unsustainable energy practices.
Ray passionately expressed her concerns, stating that the Navajo people are already suffering under the burden of detrimental energy practices. She emphasized the importance of changing the prevailing energy paradigm and advocating for solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of communities over short-term economic gains.
The Indigo Girls believe that the current energy paradigm in the United States is unsustainable and that communities must recognize the connection between flawed energy policies and the resulting injustice and violence. They criticize companies like Sithe Global for seeking tax breaks and prioritizing profits at the expense of the local population’s health and environment. Their message is a call to action, urging companies to cease exploiting indigenous communities for financial gain.
The "Honor the Earth" benefit concert in Shiprock featured a brief address by Winona LaDuke, followed by a full-length performance by the Indigo Girls. The setlist included selections from their extensive catalog, including tracks from their latest album, "Despite Our Differences."
"Despite Our Differences," released on Hollywood Records, showcased the Indigo Girls‘ signature blend of introspective lyrics, emotionally resonant melodies, and tight musicianship. The album, recognized as an Amazon Best Music of 2006 selection, demonstrated the duo’s continued evolution as songwriters and performers while remaining true to their roots.
Ray described "Despite Our Differences" as one of the Indigo Girls‘ "tightest" releases, praising its spontaneity, energy, and musical economy. The album’s themes of unity, understanding, and social justice resonated deeply with audiences, further solidifying the Indigo Girls‘ reputation as artists who use their platform to promote positive change.
Beyond the music, Ray emphasized the significance of performing in Shiprock, a small, underserved Native American community. She described the Southwest as a "magical place" and expressed her desire to bring music and awareness to a region often overlooked by mainstream entertainment.
The Indigo Girls‘ decision to bring their "Honor the Earth" benefit concert to Shiprock underscored their commitment to supporting indigenous communities and using their platform to amplify the voices of those fighting for environmental justice. Their performance served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action and the transformative potential of music to inspire change.