What's in the Name?

As we embark on our journey as "Hordes of Canadian Socialists," we wish to clarify the true significance of our name.

© 2025 Kari Løgnstat

The Hordes is an art collective rather than a political activism group. Much of the work produced by its members will not focus on political or societal issues. Nevertheless, we hold that art cannot exist in a vacuum and must fulfill its responsibilities within the social context. Therefore, from its very name, it conveys an impulse to contribute to the social critique and dialogue necessary for constructing a fair society.

A Playful Poke at American Fears

We united as the US was descending into the fascism linked with the MAGA movement and the evangelical Christian influence over civic institutions. During our discussions on the political climate, we found it both astonishing and entertaining how numerous Americans, even those who identify as liberals, react to the term "socialism." This inspired us to satirize this absence of intellectual curiosity, unquestioned conditioning, and the irony of perceiving social-democracy as an oppressive political system.

A Belief in Social Democracy

Our name is intended to be somewhat humorous, yet it sincerely embodies our dedication to the principles of social-democracy. While each of our members holds his/her own political views, we believe that social-democracy offers the optimal balance of our varied political perspectives and represents the best collective vision for a just, free, and compassionate society.

Standing with Canada

We also sought to address the recent hostility of the US towards its long-standing friend and ally, Canada.

We find the American government's unjustified attacks on Canada's economy and sovereignty (along with its alignment with some of the world's most oppressive regimes) unacceptable and contradictory to its claim of being a champion of freedom and the rule of law.

The Political Undertone of the Hordes of Canadian Socialists

In essence, the name "Hordes of Canadian Socialists" serves as a witty critique of intellectual laziness and a firm opposition to extreme right and left-wing politics that threaten societies worldwide and oppose the concept of a just, free, and compassionate society.

We are an art collective, not a political activism group, but we believe in global involvement for freedom and justice. Not all our productions will convey a political message, but expect this theme to often emerge.