The song Homeland Security was written to speak out against the unjust imprisonment of Tame Iti and Rangikaiwhiria Kemara. Both are incarcerated here in Aotearoa New Zealand on ‘unlawful possession of firearms’ charges with a grossly mismatched sentence of 2.5 years each. This song features on the compilation album, Conscious Uprising, along with other well-known New Zealand musicians, including Tama Waipara, Emma Paki , Anatonio Te Maioha, Maisey Rika, Majic Anania & MC Tipene, Tribal ConexioNZ, David Grace & Robbie Paora, Katz Maihi, Upper Hutt Posse & Nat Rose, Tiki Taane & Michael Franti, and Jahmoko. Copies of the Conscious Uprising compilation are available - each one signed by Tame Iti (from inside Waikeria Prison). 100% proceeds will be donated to Te Kotahi A Tuhoe Trust to support the families of Tame and Rangi - some will be used to off-set the high costs of the Appeal.
Homeland Security is being released as a single November 1st 2012. The accompanying music video reflects NRG Rising’s recent tour of New Mexico, USA. While on tour the band experienced deep spiritual connections with the local Native American people, re-igniting a strong desire to bring attention to the similar struggles against injustice and protection of culture, language and traditions.
NRG Rising was the international guest artist at Gathering of Nations POW WOW, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and travelled through the state sharing their music and culture with the Native American communities. NRG Rising shared time with people from the Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre, Highland High School, Miss Indian World Pageant, Gathering of Nations, Acoma Sky City Cultural Centre, Sky City Community School, San Felipe Pueblo, Tohatchi Elementary School, Jemez/Walatowa Elders Centre, NACA Native American Community Academy, Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa, and also time with Native Roots Reggae band. NRG Rising was hosted by Melissa Sanchez, Skheme Emmett Garcia of Emergence Productions.
The single can be downloaded from Itunes, Vodafone, Telecom, Amplifier, and other digital download sites from November 1st, 2012.
