Josh Kiszka (Greta Van Fleet) apologizes for culture appropriation

Greta Van Fleet frontman Josh Kiszka apologized on Instagram Tuesday (April 19, 2022) after Twitter users criticized him for cultural appropriation of Native Americans. For this they created the hashtag #SpeakUpGVF. Kiszka also makes a charitable donation to the First Nations Development Institute.

action with the desired effect

Users shared photos from 2017 during a week-long campaign using the hashtag #SpeakUpGVF. It shows Kiszka in tribal costumes. Finally, the action showed its effect – Kiszka ruled and posted an apology on Instagram. The statement says:

“I took the time to listen and collect my thoughts. My appreciation for Indigenous culture is greater than myself. I recognize the damage that ignorance can do to marginalized communities, something I never wish to perpetuate. Hatred, disrespect and prejudice of any kind are not welcome in this community. As I grew up, I was able to grow and learn. This growth has not stopped and will not stop here either.”

Donation to charity

In the further statement, Kiszka also emphasized his strong connection to the Chippewa tribe. In addition, he made a donation to ensure the preservation of the customs of the indigenous peoples:

“The Chippewa tribe has had a particularly strong impact on my life, having been exposed to their ceremonies and customs at a young age growing up in Michigan. I made a donation to the First Nations Development Institute to help keep indigenous traditions alive and well. If you would like to support me, please visit firstnations.org. Peace, Love, Unity and Equality. Always. josh”

Shared reactions to campaign

Reactions to the campaign were mixed, with some users criticizing the aggressiveness of the #SpeakUpGVF campaign. Others praised the campaign for being able to right past mistakes. Kiszka’s apology was well received by fans.

Greta Van Fleet is coming to Germany

The four musicians from the US state of Michigan will release their album “The Battle at Garden’s Gate” in 2021. They are currently touring North America, South America and Europe. The tour also takes Greta Van Fleet to Germany for two dates: on June 14th and 15th they will play in Cologne and Frankfurt.

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