Why the 'pretendian' controversy surrounding Buffy Sainte-Marie is causing strong reactions

Buffy Sainte-Marie, a celebrated folk singer and indigenous icon, has recently faced allegations of lying about her indigenous ancestry. The news shocked many fans, as Sainte-Marie has been seen as a trailblazer for indigenous people in Canada and North America. Specifically, the allegations question her adoption claims and suggest that she may not have indigenous roots at all. The investigation into her background has sparked complex emotions among her indigenous fans, ranging from pain to betrayal. While some believe the evidence presented by the CBC is convincing, others argue that the investigation fails to consider the complexities of indigenous identity, such as adoption. Feigning indigenous identity is seen as a form of colonial violence, and there have been calls to rescind awards given to Sainte-Marie and for her to take a DNA test. This incident highlights the broader issue of individuals falsely claiming indigenous identity, which is estimated to be a widespread problem in Canada. People are now questioning why and how this continues to happen. Despite the controversy, some fans still appreciate Sainte-Marie's work on an aesthetic level, even if they now view it differently culturally.