By Hanifah Jones, Staff writer
Native-American activist and hip-hop artist Supaman performed at Susquehanna in Isaacs Auditorium on April 5.
Christian Parrish Takes The Gun, also known by his stage name, Supaman, was brought to campus by the Center for Diversity and Inclusion as its annual activist-in-residence.
The award-winning Apsaalooke rapper took the stage wearing traditional regalia.
Supaman began his performance by reciting a prayer and explaining its significance to his culture. After the prayer, he began telling the jokes and relaying his experiences living on the reservation.
Supaman introduced the audience to aspects of Native American culture and explained his traditional outfit, which was used for ceremonies, as well as traditional Native American dance.
While on stage, Supaman performed using an 808 drum and the traditional instruments he brought with him, as well as beatboxing.
Supaman later invited students on stage and had them record beats that he put together into a song.
Supaman also spoke about the high rates of alcoholism, suicide and drug abuse amongst Native Americans. Paralleling the beginning of his performance, he also ended with a prayer.
Supaman will remain on campus after his performance. His time at Susquehanna includes visiting classes to discuss his activism and speaking with the Black Student Union prior to his performance.
“We do an annual activist in-residence spot and we typically do it in the spring,” said Dena Salerno, assistant dean for student diversity & inclusion. “Last year we had a director come in and work with students for a play.”
“It’s a cool combination and another way for people to work through social justice, whether it’s through visual arts like painting or performance and theater,” Salerno said. “Music has been so powerful throughout the decades in terms of social justice issues.”
Many students in the audience reacted positively to Supaman’s performance and the message he communicated.
Junior Isayah Young-Burke said, “His morals were so bright and welcoming that everybody in the room felt great.”
“It was really interesting to hear his perspective and hear him rap and be funny and jovial and interesting and entertaining at the same time,” YoungBurke continued. “Everybody was willing to participate in what he wanted to show us.”
Others noted the diverse perspective he was able to bring to Susquehanna.
First-year Kaitlyn Gardineer said: “I don’t think I’ve ever had such an open and fun multicultural experience before.”
“He really engaged his audience and brought everyone together for a positive experience,” Gardineer continued.
Students who attended further emphasized the importance of Susquehanna hosting a Native American performer for the first time.
First-year Malia Simon said, “Supaman’s Fancy Dance style, hip-hop and cultural message was something that [Susquehanna] needed to hear.”
“The Originals to this land are often forgotten, silenced and ignored but his positivity and education brought light to Natives,” Simon continued. “I am happy [Susquehanna] had the opportunity to listen to his inspiring message.”