News — Waashat
They Sang a Warrior Song for Her
![They Sang a Warrior Song for Her](http://nativefriends.com/cdn/shop/articles/101-_Language_History_2_1024x1024.png?v=1501801518)
Why would elders sing a warrior song for a teenager that was not in the war or military, but had just won a pageant? It is almost 18 years later and I am still fully understanding this experience. The year was 1999. I was 18, and just won a second pageant, Miss National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). This was hosted by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Their homelands are also known as Palm Springs, California. I was supported by my tribe, the Yakama Nation to run for a second title. I am honored that I was able to hold...