Spirit and Intent

Spirit and Intent is a new song by Joh’kota released Sept. 15 that captures the significance of 150 years of Treaty.

Jah’kota, also known as Justin Holness, is a head person from Ocean Man First Nation.

As a Treaty leader and musician, his music-making also carries a message about treaty-making.

“Many of my songs I use as time capsules as an opportunity to share our story as First Nations people, but also as a productive educational resource for the broader community to know the true spirit of intent, and that we are all treaty people,” he said.

“It was important for me to make this song as a way to incorporate our truth, both the hardships, but also our resilience because as we continue to coexist within treaty territory.”

He wanted to be part of a broader education for Canadians because that is the foundation for living together and prospering with the true spirit and intent of treaty.

“I hope it encourages those who might be learning about it for the first time or hearing some of the truth I shared for the first time and they take it upon themselves to research and learn more about our treaty relationship,” he said.

Spirit and Intent is available on all streaming platforms or find @jahkotamusic on social.