Because I am a Girl Blog

Because I Am a Girl School Tour, Interview with Nana in Victoria (photo by Corey Norman)

It’s been a long time on the road for me, having spent the last 5 months between California & Jamaica recording.  I ended 1 tour across Canada, hopped on a plane to LA to finish my record with Kops & Robbers, then back to Vancouver a couple coffees later to get started on the “Because I Am a Girl” tour.  Phew.

The night before our first show for BIAG in Victoria, I quickly updated my Facebook Fan page to say “I am so excited to start a tour for Girls Rights”.  A few moments later, a young boys posts a reply…”Girls have no rights!”  I asked him to explain and he replied “MAKE ME A SAMMICH THATS HOW I MEAN.”  Taken a back a little, I thought about this kid.  I remembered him from one of the Vancouver schools (on the last tour), noticing everything from him freckles and skinny jeans, to how nervous he got asking me for an autograph.  Where do young boys learn such things to say? Family? Friends? Television?  Music?  I simply replied “I hope we come to your school as you have a lot to learn.”

I am proud to be on the Because I Am a Girl School tour for so many reasons. The things I take for granted that most people should already know…they don’t.  We shouldn’t discriminate again girls, yet right here in Canada young boys are emulating what they hear in the general consensus be it media, family or friends – and taking such thoughts and words as jokes.  Sexist jokes and remarks manifest into a general understanding when repeated enough times, especially when misogynistic punchlines get a laugh and rise out of a group of peers.  Little boys, grow into men that function in the work force and are often seated in decision making roles…it is important to change the status quo of such thought at a young age.  I want all young ladies out there to speak out against these remarks whenever they hear them.  It could be as simple as saying “Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?” or “I know you can’t be speaking to me, because that is not who I am as a girl!”  I want all young boys that appreciate the women in their life to also speak out against such hurtful statements, and simply say “That’s not cool man...” or “I love and support the girls and women in my life“.

As for my mouthy little friend, all I have to say is I am far too busy as a woman, touring, recording, running my record label and signing your autograph request to make you a sandwich.  Mayhaps you have the time to make me one?  Turkey club, hold the mayo.

Back on the road again.  One Love.

Nana before first show in Victoria BC

I love rocking the show. (photo by Corey Norman)

I got to see my long time friend (and supporter) Cappy One in Victoria!

Ferry Ride Victoria to Vancouver...I'm doing my best Titanic impression