From failing to understand how global warming works to implementing detrimental budget cuts to our country's science and environmental agencies, it's no secret that Donald Trump isn't a friend of the environment.
But if there's anything good that has come from Trump's presidency, it's the fact that people are inspired to protest, fight for what's right, and not keep quiet. One of those people is Alexis Krauss, of Brooklyn pop duo Sleigh Bells.
Today, Krauss has released "Our Land" an original song she wrote to voice her disgust at Trump's tone-deaf policies. It's surprisingly optimistic — a song of hope we need now more than ever. It's the kind of song that's sweet to listen to, but packs a gentle punch à la Cher's "Half Breed."
"I wrote ‘Our Land’ as a protest song," wrote Krauss in a press release. "[It's] inspired by my love of wild spaces and in response to President Trump’s assault on our national monuments." After the song's inception, Krauss embarked on a trip to Utah, where she became "captivated by the overwhelming beauty of these threatened lands." Bears Ears National Monument in Utah is just one of these many endangered spaces.
It's important to note that "Our Land" isn't just about preserving nature, but also salvaging history. Krauss added: "the struggle is about more than just protecting breathtaking views, it is about respecting and conserving thousands of years of Native American history and culture," another thing Trump wouldn't know anything about. "These lands are sacred not just because they are rich in archaeological heritage, but because they are a living breathing landscape actively relied upon as a source for sustaining a way of life."
Krauss is not alone in her fight. Joining her Our Land Collective is Karen O (of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs), singer Maggie Rogers, Shane Stoneback, Greta Morgan (of Springtime Carnivore), in addition to activists and outdoor communities.
You, too, can join Krauss in her fight to preserve these spaces by supporting "Our Land" (available now on Bandcamp). All proceeds from the sale of the song and released merch will directly fund legal efforts to reinstate protection for the entire Bears Ears National Monument. Change starts with you!
