One Little Indian Changes Name to One Little Independent Records

The independent record label One Little Indian have changed their name to One Little Independent Records. The record label, who include artists such as Björk, The Sugarcubes, Cody Chesnutt and more announced the new name on social media.

The label’s owner and founder, Derek Birkett, released a statement on Twitter detailing why he chose to change the label’s name following a correspondence with a fan who informed him it was racially insensitive. Birkett apologizes for the use of the terminology, explaining he previously was unaware of how it was offensive, as he had believed the name and logo was respectful towards Native Americans.

“The last few weeks have been a monumental learning curve,” Birkett said in a statement on Twitter. “Following the receipt of an eye-opening letter from a Crass fan that detailed precisely why the logo and label name are offensive, as well as the violent history of the terminology, I felt equally appalled and grateful to them for making me understand what must be changed.”

He explained how he thought the terminology reflected his appreciation for Native American culture, but has now learned that was not the case. Birkett also stated the name and logo of the record company have immediately been changed.

“I’m aware that my white privilege has sheltered me and fostered my ignorance on these issues,” the statement continued. “I realise now that the label name and logo instead perpetuated a harmful stereotyping and exploitation of Indigenous Peoples’ culture. This is the exact opposite of what was intended. However, I know that it is not the intentions but the impact that is important.”

Birkett also said he will be donating, and will continue to donate, to the Honouring Indigenous Peoples Charitable Corporation and The Association on American Indian Affairs.

Birkett founded the label in 1985, after being part of ‘80s punk band Flux of Pink Indians. One Little Independent Records is home to artists such as Björk, The Sugarcubes, Olga Bell, Crass, Bad Breeding, A.R. Kane, Kitchens of Distinction, Cody Chesnutt and more.