March is Women's History Month, so we can expect the usual paeans to the usual pantheon of famous women. I want to use this month to introduce you to some strong, powerful, beautiful women that you've probably never met.
We begin today with Radmilla Cody, GRAMMY-nominated, NAMMY-winning singer from the Navajo Nation. And I do mean "singer" in the fullest Indian sense of the word.
Diné and African American, Ms. Cody has a special perspective on what it means to be a multiracial woman straddling multiple cultures and lifeways, one that I understand (in some ways, all too well). She's a survivor of domestic violence, another issue that is close to my heart for many reasons, and she has become a fierce anti-domestic violence activist. She also does what I will never be able to do if I live to be a thousand: Sing. In the most hauntingly beautiful voice.
I wrote about Ms. Cody last year at Daily Kos as part of my weekly Native news round-up:
DINÉ SINGER RADMILLA CODY BECOMES FIRST INDIAN PRESENTER AT GRAMMYS
Radmilla Cody (Navajo/African American) has become the first American Indian presenter for the pre-telecast portion of the GRAMMY Awards. A nominee herself in the "Best Regional Roots" category for her latest album, "<em>Shi Keyah</em>: Songs for the People," she wore traditional Navajo dress on the red carpet, and answered extensive questions about her heritage. Although she did not win in her category, she is also nominated in three separate categories for the upcoming NAMMY (Native American Music) Awards.
Fun fact: Wings met Radmilla Cody more than 15 years ago, when she visited his gallery during her reign as the 46th (and first biracial) Miss Navajo Nation. In addition to her tenure as Miss Navajo Nation and her work as a musician, she is a model and an activist in the fight against domestic violence.
You can hear her music on her personal Web site.Note: Her albums are archived on the site, where you can order them directly.
Text copyright Ajijaakwe, 2013, 2014; all rights reserved.
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