The premiere release of the song entitled “From Stilettos to Moccasins” sung by Violet Naytowhow, which portrays the healing experiences of Aboriginal women who have struggled with drug abuse and addiction, is now available. An unplugged version was played for a CBC radio interview on May 13, 2009. The song was officially released at a public gathering later that evening in Saskatoon, SK.
In collaboration with Naytowhow, the song was written earlier this year by Aboriginal women who are healing from illicit drug abuse and problems with the law, and those who are helping them on their journey. Acoustics are by Kevin Joseph and recording by Mosaic Music.
“FROM STILETTOS TO MOCCASINS” – lyrics
I survived through the pain
Many emotions like waves
Laughing and crying again and again
Honesty, strength, friends and devotion
Showering gifts of hope to reclaim
Walking the streets dragging my heart
Wandering with my head held down in shame
When and how did my family fall apart
Who am I, what is my name?
BRIDGE:
Surviving the street lost and alone
I started a journey to find my way home
CHORUS:
From stilettos to moccasins
Our spirit dances within
On our way to resolution
We find our peace
And this is who I am
Broken barriers and new discoveries
My spirit I now reclaim
Coming home to who I am
Taking honour in my name
No longer a prisoner lost in this world
Look within my shell
To find that pearl
CHORUS:
From stilettos to moccasins
Our spirit dances within
On our way to resolution
We find our peace
And this is who I am
© Violet Naytowhow & the CIHR Project Research Team – Aboriginal women drug users in conflict with the law: A study of the role of self-identity in the healing journey.
To listen to the song From Stilettos to Moccasins -click here- or contact us for a free CD copy
