Deidra Suwanee Dees, a member of the Muscogee Nation, has been awarded First Place by The People’s Poet in the United Kingdom for her powerful and evocative poem, “Celebrate.” This distinguished recognition highlights Dees’s talent and her compelling exploration of the Indigenous perspective on Christopher Columbus and the enduring repercussions of colonization in the Western Hemisphere. "Celebrate" is a poignant work that delves into the complex emotions surrounding the historical figure and the legacy he left behind, prompting reflection on the shaping of American holidays and the broader narrative of Indigenous experiences.
Dees’s winning poem, "Celebrate," provides a raw and unflinching look at the impact of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. It’s a verse that doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of history, confronting the reader with the consequences of conquest and the lasting wounds inflicted upon Indigenous populations. The poem is not a mere historical recounting but a deeply personal and emotional response, conveying the anger and sadness that resonate through generations. The poem uses vivid imagery and stark language to challenge the traditional celebratory narrative surrounding Columbus Day, offering a counter-narrative that centers the Indigenous experience.
The selection of "Celebrate" for the First Place Award by The People’s Poet underscores the growing recognition of Indigenous voices in contemporary literature. This UK-based organization is committed to showcasing diverse poetic talents and fostering dialogue on crucial social and political issues. By awarding Dees this prestigious honor, The People’s Poet amplifies her message and provides a platform for her work to reach a wider audience, fostering a greater understanding of Indigenous perspectives on history and identity. The award underscores the importance of hearing from marginalized voices and acknowledging the complexities of historical narratives.
Delving into "Celebrate": A Closer Look at the Poem
The poem itself is a powerful and unsettling work. Dees uses a direct and confrontational tone, immediately establishing a contrast between the celebratory atmosphere surrounding Columbus Day and the lived reality of Indigenous peoples. The opening lines, "they celebrate / a day off from work and school / —swaddled in patriotism," paint a picture of a nation embracing a narrative that often ignores the darker side of its history. This sets the stage for a stark juxtaposition with the speaker’s own perspective, rooted in the knowledge of "exploits of countless christian sins."
The poem’s central section delves into the brutal consequences of Columbus’s actions, accusing him of being a "stealer of land and children," a "cold slave owner," and a builder whose "house [is] on the blood of natives." These accusations are delivered with unflinching honesty, forcing the reader to confront the violence and exploitation that accompanied European colonization. The visceral imagery, such as "filling your hunger on the nectar of virgins," further amplifies the sense of violation and injustice.
The latter part of "Celebrate" takes an even more provocative turn. The speaker addresses Columbus directly, inviting him to "come close to me" and "smell my nectar," creating a tense and sexually charged atmosphere. This is not an invitation of seduction but a strategic maneuver, a way to lure Columbus into a space where he can be confronted with the truth of his actions. The final lines, "my breath like fire / erases your existence / when I whisper / GENOCIDE," deliver a powerful and cathartic blow, reclaiming agency and silencing the colonizer’s narrative.
The poem’s structure and language are deliberately unsettling, mirroring the unsettling nature of the historical events it describes. The use of fragmented lines and enjambment creates a sense of unease, while the repetition of phrases like "come closer to me" builds tension and anticipation. The poem’s ending is both defiant and sorrowful, acknowledging the enduring impact of genocide while also asserting the resilience and power of Indigenous voices. "Celebrate," through its raw honesty and unflinching perspective, serves as a potent reminder of the importance of remembering and reckoning with the past.
Deidra Suwanee Dees: Scholar and Poet
Beyond her poetic achievements, Dees is a dedicated scholar deeply invested in the field of Native American education. Her years of research in this area demonstrate a commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous students. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in cross-cultural Education at Harvard University, a testament to her unwavering dedication to academic excellence and her passion for improving educational outcomes for Native American communities. Her scholarly pursuits complement her creative writing, providing a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding that informs her poetic explorations.
Her academic work and creative writing are intertwined, each informing and enriching the other. Her research provides a deep understanding of the historical and contemporary issues facing Native American communities, while her poetry offers a powerful and emotional outlet for exploring these issues. The combination of her scholarly expertise and artistic talent makes her a unique and influential voice in both academic and literary circles. Dees’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom, as she uses her writing to educate and inspire others about Indigenous history, culture, and identity.
Publication in the Autumn Journal
"Celebrate" will be published in the Autumn Journal by The People’s Poet, ensuring that Dees’s powerful verse will reach a wider audience. This publication provides a valuable opportunity for readers to engage with her work and to reflect on the complex issues it raises. The inclusion of "Celebrate" in the Autumn Journal underscores the journal’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices and promoting dialogue on important social and political issues. The publication also serves as a significant milestone in Dees’s literary career, further solidifying her reputation as a talented and insightful poet.
The Autumn Journal provides a fitting context for "Celebrate," as it is a publication dedicated to exploring themes of identity, culture, and social justice. By publishing Dees’s poem, the journal is contributing to a broader conversation about the legacy of colonialism and the importance of Indigenous perspectives. The journal’s readers will have the opportunity to engage with Dees’s work and to consider the challenges and triumphs of Native American communities.
The win for Dees, Muscogee, underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Indigenous artists and scholars. Her work serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of history on contemporary life and the need for continued dialogue and understanding. Dees, Muscogee, is a rising voice in both the literary and academic worlds, and her future contributions are sure to be significant. Dees, Muscogee, and her powerful poem "Celebrate" offer a vital contribution to the ongoing conversation about history, identity, and justice. The award for Dees, Muscogee, is a testament to her talent and the importance of amplifying Indigenous voices.