2022 marked the 20-year anniversary of Timor Leste’s Independence, and the formation of one of the country’s leading voices of activism, the Dili Allstars. With their spirit and art rooted in resistance, their music speaks of peaceful protest in the struggle for liberation. Founding members Paulie Stewart (Painters & Dockers) and Gil Santos, and all subsequent band members, have been involved with the East Timor struggle, losing family and friends, homes and security in the Indonesian invasion of 1975. These days, the band is keeping the music, culture and art of Timor Leste alive through storytelling, social engagements with the community and mentoring young people.