Woman of Note: Joy Harjo

Let's get to know 𝐉𝐨𝐲 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐣𝐨, internationally renowned performer and writer of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Joy is the first Native American named Poet Laureate of the United States.

Joy focuses on First Nation storytelling and histories, as well as feminist and social justice poetic traditions, and frequently incorporates indigenous myths, symbols, and values into her writing. Her work is also deeply concerned with politics, tradition, remembrance, and the transformational aspects of poetry.

In February 2022, Joy was named the Bob Dylan Center’s first artist-in-residence and will spend six years presenting educational programs and live performances at the new center in Tulsa.

Joy wrote “Eagle Poem” which serves as the text for Joan Szymko’s Eagle Rounding Out the Morning, a piece we are delighted to perform for you in May!