Music and her matriarchal family gave Malyangapa / Barkindji rapper Barkaa a new lease on life after being incarcerated. In ‘For My Tittas’, she stands proudly among generations of First Nations women, rapping about the pitfalls facing, and power of, Black women. While confronting systemic racism, misogyny and the hardships of life, her lyrics also offer inspiration, with Barkaa rapping: “Stand strong like your matriarchy and tidda aim higher than the stars can reach.” Pride in her tittas (which translates to sisters) and community is also expressed by painting each other up and speaking in Barkindji.
Courtesy Vyva entertainment. Visuals/editing by Joaquin Pangelinan