Klee Benally, a relentless force in the punk rock scene and a fervent advocate for Indigenous rights, environmental causes, and anti-colonial movements, recently passed away at the age of 48. Born and raised in the Diné (Navajo) Nation, Klee was an artist, musician, traditional dancer, filmmaker, and a dedicated Indigenous anarchist.
He spent his life on the front lines, passionately defending sacred Indigenous lands and supporting environmental justice campaigns. Klee co-founded impactful initiatives such as Táala Hooghan Infoshop, Protect the Peaks, Outta Your Backpack Media, and was a driving force behind Haul No!. Through these platforms, he provided strategic planning, direct action training, and a powerful voice for Indigenous justice.
As a musician, Klee was the backbone of the award-winning rock group Blackfire and a pivotal member of The Jones Benally Family, renowned for their traditional dance performances. His artistic contributions extended far beyond music—Klee was a prolific filmmaker, producing documentaries like "Greening the Revolution," "The Snowbowl Effect," and "Power Lines," shedding light on critical social and environmental issues.
His fearless advocacy against the desecration of sacred lands, notably protesting the snowmaking at Arizona Snowbowl ski resort, exemplified his commitment to cultural preservation. Klee's activism extended to denouncing racial profiling, addressing homelessness issues, and advocating for the cleanup of abandoned uranium mines that scarred the Navajo Nation.
In December 2023, Klee launched two revolutionary projects at the MOCAF Museum, showcasing his anti-colonial spirit. "Burn the Fort," an independent board game of Indigenous resistance, and his book "No Spiritual Surrender: Indigenous Anarchy in Defense of the Sacred," stand as testaments to his unyielding commitment to decolonization.
Klee's legacy as a fierce agitator against colonial oppression echoes through his writings and actions. His book "No Spiritual Surrender" challenges the status quo and calls for total liberation of Nahasdzáán (Mother Earth) through radical Indigenous autonomy.
Through his relentless activism, electrifying punk performances, and unwavering dedication to Indigenous sovereignty, Klee Benally leaves an indelible mark on the punk rock community and the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
Rest in power, Klee. Your punk spirit and undying commitment to justice will continue to inspire generations to come.