June 28, 2008

Radmilla Cody visits Russia

Former Miss Navajo helps break down Native American stereotypes[One] surprise was the stereotype vision many Russians hold of Native people.

"It was so interesting addressing individuals who feed into the stereotypes," Cody said. "They seemed to think that all of us wear beads and say 'hau.' I explained that there are many, many tribes--we don't look the same, we don't speak the same languages--we are just one tribe out of hundreds.

"The whole purpose was to talk about tolerance. I was giving three presentations every day. I was exhausted, but it was such an honor to share with them the Navajo culture and songs, and my experiences as Miss Navajo Nation," Cody continued. "The women were fascinated that we are a matriarchal people."

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