Reconciliation SA stands in support of K A Ren Wyld, a proud First Nations person and South Australian resident, who has recently faced punitive action in response to a social media post. We express deep concern over the withdrawal of an artist's prize and the implications this action holds for artistic freedom, advocacy, and justice.
Art has always been used as a form of resistance, advocacy, and truth-telling. It has long been a vehicle to speak out against injustice and to amplify the voices of those unheard. To penalise an artist for continuing this legacy of activism and advocacy is not only reprehensible, it is a denial of the essential role art plays in societal progress.
In the current cost-of-living crisis, many artists, especially those from historically marginalised communities, depend on awards, grants, and prizes to supplement their income and sustain their practice. Stripping K A Ren Wyld of such opportunities not only limits their ability to make a living but also sends a chilling message to all artists who use their platform to stand in solidarity with oppressed peoples.
It is vital to understand the broader context in which First Nations artists speak out. The shared history of colonisation, dispossession, and cultural survival creates a deep sense of empathy and solidarity with other communities experiencing silencing, violence and genocide. This perspective should be met with understanding, not censure.
K A Ren has addressed the incident through an interview with InDaily, we believe these words demonstrate both accountability and humanity. They deserve to be met with compassion, not condemnation.
CEO Jason Downs states “Reconciliation is not achieved through silence or punishment, it is built through dialogue, understanding, and respect for the diversity of lived experiences. We call on institutions, arts bodies, and the wider public to reflect on the values of equity, truth-telling, and freedom of expression as we stand beside K A Ren Wyld”