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NOVEMBER 14, 2000

Ask Arigon Starr about politics or Paul McCartney and you might end up talking to her for hours.

The Kickapoo / Creek singer and guitarist is already well known in Indian Country for her unique brand of pop-rock music. But she's also equally comfortable, and particularly passionate, about politics and how Native Americans fit into it all.

"It behooves Indian people to be as involved as they feel comfortable being," says Arigon. "If we don't yell and scream and make a lot of noise, no one's going to hear us."

The political season has turned out to be especially critical for Native Americans and tribes. From the Presidential race to several Congressional ones, Indian voters like Arigon paid close attention to the campaigns this year.

For Arigon, a Gore supporter, the importance of being involved was driven home at the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles this past August. She attended several convention events and felt the party was committed to Native Americans.

"They actually made an effort to include Native people, whereas the GOP did not," said Arigon. "We had everyone from Senator Inouye to Governor Locke of Washington state come out and talk to us."

But Arigon was particularly impressed by the level of enthusiasm displayed at the convention. True to her musical roots, she likened it to a rock concert, only bigger and better.

"I have been to many a rock concert and it was nothing, nothing to compare," said Arigon of Gore's acceptance speech.

"Maybe I'll run for office," she half-jokingly added.

A run for public office might not be out of character for the busy Arigon. Owner of her own record label, she is also a skilled businesswoman. And she's also already used to touring. She's been on the road in recent months, supporting her group's sophomore release Wind-Up.

But wherever her travels take her, Arigon is always ready to fight for Native rights and issues and eagerly offers her voice not only through her music but her physical presence. After speaking with students and educators last week in Arizona, where voters have approved the dismantling of bilingual education, she is especially dedicated.

"Whatever we can do to help them -- If people have to go to jail, I'm ready," says Arigon.

Related Stories:
Bilingual education voted down (Indian U. 11/8)
English-only protested (Indian U. 10/16)
Group says Indian children are 'prisoners' (Indian U. 10/13)
Convention welcomes Natives (The Talking Circle 08/15)

Relevant Links:
Wind-Up
"We love WIND-UP!" -- Gregg McVicar, Host, Earthsongs

Starrwatcher Online - www.arigonstarr.com