The Life and Impact of Joy Harjo

Joy Harjo: A Trailblazing Native American Poet Laureate

Joy Harjo, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, has made her mark as a prominent Native American poet, musician, and author. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on May 9, 1951, Harjo has reached several career milestones, most notably her appointment as the 23rd Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress. She is the first Native American to hold this esteemed position and has been appointed for three consecutive terms, a testament to her impact on American poetry. Harjo's body of work is extensive, including nine poetry collections, memoirs, children's books, and musical albums, all infused with her cultural heritage and lived experiences.

Early Life and Artistic Influences

Joy Harjo was born to Allen W. Foster and Wynema Baker Foster, with her father being of Muscogee descent and her mother of mixed Cherokee and European-American heritage. Her family's history includes Muscogee leaders, and Harjo later adopted her paternal grandmother's surname. The artistic influence of her family, particularly her aunt and grandmother, was instrumental in her creative development. Despite a tumultuous childhood marked by her father's abusive behavior and alcoholism, which led to her parents' divorce, Harjo found refuge in the arts. Initially a painter, she eventually turned to poetry, writing her first poem in eighth grade.

Educational Path and Literary Beginnings

Harjo's formal education in the arts began at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she studied at the age of sixteen. This institution provided an escape from her difficult home life and nurtured her burgeoning talents. She pursued creative writing at the University of New Mexico, where she was influenced by Native American writers like Leslie Marmon Silko and Simon J. Ortiz. Harjo's first published work, a chapbook titled "The Last Song," came out when she was 24. She further honed her craft at the Iowa Writers' Workshop, where she earned an MFA, cementing her place in the literary community.

Literary Achievements and Recognition

Harjo's literary career took off with the release of her debut poetry collection, "What Moon Drove Me to This?" in 1979. Her poetry delves into themes such as identity, history, love, and Indigenous culture, earning her widespread recognition and awards. As the Poet Laureate, Harjo has played a crucial role in amplifying Native American voices and perspectives, advocating for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation. Her influential poetry collections, including "She Had Some Horses" and "An American Sunrise," have received critical praise and solidified her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary poetry.

Personal Life and Cultural Advocacy

Joy Harjo's personal life is characterized by resilience and commitment. As a single mother, she raised two children, Phil Dayn and Rainy Dawn, while building her career. Her personal relationships, including those with her children's fathers and her current husband, Owen Sapulpa, have influenced her writing and activism. Harjo, now based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, continues to be a prominent figure in the arts, serving as a chancellor for the Academy of American Poets and Artist-in-Residence at the Bob Dylan Center in Tulsa. Her leadership as the Board of Directors Chair of the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation highlights her dedication to fostering and preserving Indigenous arts.

Harjo's Enduring Influence on Poetry and Cultural Dialogue

Joy Harjo's impact on poetry and cultural discourse is significant. Her poems, such as "Remember," "Praise the Rain," and "For Calling the Spirit Back From Wandering the Earth in Its Human Feet," are lauded for their lyrical depth and insightful themes. Harjo's use of the second person narrative in her poetry fosters a personal connection with readers, prompting introspection about one's relationship with nature, heritage, and the collective human journey. Her thought-provoking quotes on self-discovery, the creative process, and the wisdom of the natural world resonate with a wide audience. Harjo's contributions extend beyond the literary realm, as she is a vocal advocate for Indigenous peoples, championing understanding, respect, and equitable treatment.