The Heartbeat Drum: The Story of Carol Powder, Cree Drummer and Activist

Summary

Nisôhkisinân …
We are strong …
Ninikamonân …
We are singing …
Mîna nika-âhkamêyimonân … And we will continue …

Whenever young Carol sang along to her family’s music, her heart felt light and full of joy. Learning from her great-grandfather, Moshum, Carol listened closely to the drums’ heartbeat until one day, Moshum made her a drum of her very own.

As Carol grew up, she passed down her songs to her children, grandchildren, and many women in her community, just as Moshum taught her—even as women and children became increasingly excluded from sitting at the drum. Despite those who disapproved, she formed her own drumming group called Chubby Cree.

Today, Carol and her group share their music to advocate at climate events, to honor residential school survivors at special ceremonies, and to spread healing for anyone who needs it. Powerfully written, The Heartbeat Drum is a radiant celebration of preserving Indigenous traditions, finding your voice, and speaking out.