Abena Songbird

Sandra Abena Songbird (Abenaki), was born in Montpelier, Vermont (N’dakinna) where she spent over half her 50 plus years and is a member of the Missisquoi Abenaki of Vermont. She has published one book of poetry, “Bitterroot” – (Freedom Voices Press, Berkeley) and one album, “They’re Calling Us Home” (Cedar & Sage Music, 2000). Currently she works as a program assistant in multicultural affairs at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology Affairs and is a co-advisor for American Indian students (AISES) and other underrepresented students of color.  She shares a home in Black Hawk with her two Chihuahuas – Ernesto Little Coffee, and Santana and makes the journey back to Vermont as much as possible to visit her mother, sister and brother and family – powwows, tribal doings, and her fellow Abenaki/Wabanaki people.