Issue 2: Plucked from the water like Moses
My grandfather, #NativeRepresentation, and "the greatest boxer who never lived."
…and we’re back (again!)
Hi, y’all!
Thanks a million to everyone who greeted last week’s kickoff newsletter with such enthusiasm and generosity. I super appreciatcha.
Let’s jump right into what’s next.
1. Poem: “My Mom Offers To Send Me My Grandfather’s Poetry”
A poem about my Papa Norman, his writing, and the things our parents (and our parents’ parents) share (and don’t share), often for our own protection. An excerpt:
(Psst…if you have a Medium account, you can give (up to 50!) lil’ “claps” at the bottom of the post. If you’re compelled, go for it!)
2. Social Media: IllumiNative
I’ve had the privilege of working on content strategy, newsletters, and social media for IllumiNative, a Native woman-led racial and social justice org building power for Native people by amplifying Native voices, stories, and issues. They’re a great follow on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter — and not just because I’m helping with copy!
3. Recommendation: “The Rocky Statue: A Famous Monument To A Fictitious Hero” (Podcast Episode)
This episode of Notes From America is a 20-minute journey from Philadelphia, to Germany, and back to the American South, which covers race, collective memory, who gets a statue, and who doesn’t. A fascinating story about the real-life Philly boxing hero and “the greatest boxer who never lived.” Listen here.
Really enjoyed “Rocky” story. Never realized Joe Frazier’s impact. In hindsight, my recollection is that Ali constantly berated him! Maybe this was Ali’s showmanship but Joe deserved better!