And now:Ish <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes:
Background posts:
To the Mayor of Albuquerque:
Dear Sir,
Your correction noted and passed along. It is shameful what the City
Council has authorized. How can a city support a statue of a man who was
essentially the 15th century version of a local Hitler?
this does not make sense.
Ish
In response to:
Date: Tue, 25 May 1999 10:09 -0600
From: "Jim R. Baca" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: ALBUQUERQUE: Falmouth drops the ball
:
please send this to the city council....I vetoed the bill but they
overrode it.....get your facts straight please..
______________________________
Subject: ALBUQUERQUE: Falmouth drops the ball
Author: [EMAIL PROTECTED] at INTERNET
Date: 5/24/99 8:37 PM
The city of Albuquerque New Mexico unveiled plans to honor a Spanish
soldier, responsible for atrocities against Native people. Onate was tried
by the then existing Spanish law and found guilty of these atrocities.
There is a boycott in effect against the city of Albuquerque until they
come to the only rational conclusion that it is not honorable to honor an
historical Hitler...
There can be no reconciliation without acknowledgement of injustice, of
these atrocities.
In response to a call for boycott, it appears the NAMMYS choose to honor
the city council's actions by ignoring the boycott, despite repeated
requests that justice be served.
I would like to request that those receiving this news reply to the NAMMYS
with your opinions. Albuquerque wins..and we lose again?
Like Jackson on a $20, the US tends to honor its butchers. I cannot
comprehend the fact that the NAMMYS would choose to do so also.
Ish
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Message-ID: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Fri, 11 Jun 1999 19:12:21 EDT
Subject: NAMMYS STAY IN ALBUQUERQUE!
Response to Catherine Davids c/o University of Michigan,
Any reporter or "writer" knows that they must fact check their findings
prior to "publication." Unfortunately, you have overlooked this vital part
of communication with your accusation against the Mayor of the City of
Albuquerque's proclamation of November 6th, 1999 as "Native American Music
Awards Day" in an effort to seek publicity. With proper research, (or just
by inquiring with us first), you would have learned that it was after
numerous requests by individuals and organizations in the Albuquerque
community who wanted the next Awards show to take place there! As they
stated, "this is simply where it should be." After securing the proper
venue, it was NAMA who requested this proclamation by the Mayor of the City
of Albuquerque.
Music is universal and carries no borders. Given this, two of our artists, a
brother from the South (Xavier who performs the ancient music of Mexico), and
a brother from the North (Robert Tree Cody) have offered to come together for
a special performance segment as part of our opening blessing for the Second
Annual Native American Music Awards show. They aim to show the similarities
in their music and talk about the "Crossroads" that once existed and can
continue to exist today. Let these artists, through, the Awards platform,
serve as that "needed bridge" as stated in the article; Bridges Needed to
Unite Cultures: "seems more like a case where a bridge between communities
needs to be built". We will also debut our "Best Latin American Indigenous
Recording" category at this year's show, and with the right presenter, maybe
can help make an "impact".
We believe this is a much more positive approach than any "boycott" or
"avoidance" against this City, which will not be endorsed by the NAMA
organization. Other cities throughout this country are not immune from
conflict or issues regarding the First Peoples. Even Mount Rushmore in the
Black Hills is not preventing us from considering Rapid City as a potential
future site for the Nammys. Sound Scan reports show that Albuquerque has
been a great sales market for our artists as well. Our aim is to "raise
awareness and respect" from all races and colors in a positive and
constructive way - through celebrating the music of our artists. There are
political and human rights organizations which are more qualified to assist
with your/this position. However, we have been aware of, and were updated on
the "statue" matter several weeks ago while we were in Albuquerque.
Although we are "issue" sensitive, politics slow down progress. Music is
more immediate and enraptures an individual within moments. If we all are to
grow in a productive way, it is only through music that we can participate in
the spirit of healing and raising awareness at a much faster rate. NAMA as a
music organization, provides a needed national platform for individual
artists to celebrate and showcase their talents. Should these artists want
to incorporate their own political views through their participation or
music, they can, and they will.
But to deny a local community (and major city) where we may be needed most,
with a wanted program that heals and celebrates achievements - achievements
usually accomplished against great odds, as well as fosters greater respect
and understanding of our people among both the good and lost-hearted, would
be a terrible tragedy.
Anyone who has been a part of the Native American Music Awards knows the
glowing faces of all in attendance; has felt their hearts fill up with love
and inspiration; and has seen the respect, pride and joy flowing in the air.
It is through those few moments, together each year, that we all become more
empowered and determined to want to share this with others. Please consider
attending one of the Awards shows soon! Now, we need to get back to work...
Sincerely,
The Native American Music Awards
Awesome', 'Incredible', 'Amazing' were words used to describe the
'monumental' event.
Indian Country Today
Enlightening and educational, the first Native American Music Awards had a
prevailing spirit of peace and musical solidarity.
Hartford Advocate
It was truly a magical night. It really went beyond my expectations. I knew
that we would enjoy ourselves but I did not know that it would be one of the
most special times in my whole life. The colors, the lights, the flowers,
the laughs, the tears, the applause, the love, and most of all the music! I
was totally entranced with it all.
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
I will never forget the camaraderie, the love and the care put into the
Native American Music Awards...I would go again in a heartbeat. Hugs and
continued success...
Cyndie - [EMAIL PROTECTED]
<<<<=-=-= =-=-=>>>>
"We simply chose an Indian as the emblem.
We could have just as easily chosen any
uncivilized animal."
Eighth Grade student writing about his school's
mascot, 1997
