Today’s blog is written by Candace Begody, who wears many hats, or shall I say, crowns. She is a member of the Navajo Nation
from Cross Canyon, Arizona; a senior majoring in journalism and minoring in Native American studies at the University of Arizona; a fieldtrip guide at the Arizona State Museum; founder/president of the UofA student chapter of the Native American Journalists Association, editor of “Native Perspectives: Giving Voice to Indigenous Peoples of Arizona” (a twice yearly student-produced publication); and this year she is also Miss Native American University of Arizona. This honorary position has existed since 1980 and serves to promote the importance of pursuing a college education while maintaining and practicing Native American traditions.
With journalistic eyes and ears, I dove into my reign as Miss Native American University of Arizona 2009-2010. As one might guess, I took on this role to serve and represent the Native American community at the UA and in Tucson. Subconsciously I wondered if this was mainly a figurehead position showcasing a beautiful woman with a crown atop her head, or would I be able to make a real difference through my work at Miss Native American UofA? Answering this question steered me on my road.
Over the last year, I have put everything into being the best role model I can be for my brothers and sisters throughout Indian Country. Even before receiving this new honor, I was lucky to have had the opportunity to travel across the country and beyond to Asia to speak about issues affecting Indian Country. I also served as a member of President Obama’s first White House Internship Program.
As Miss Native America
n UofA, I arrange for visiting speakers to present about such issues as domestic violence, alcoholism, and education. I ask myself, “How do I bring to the students what I have learned during my travels? How do I help them in realizing their obligation to serve at some capacity?”
My personal experiences have helped me contemplate how to best represent Native culture and identity without adding fuel to the fire with respect to stereotypes. I share stories about growing up in beautiful Cross Canyon, Arizona (located on the Navajo Nation), my family, my travels, my education, my hopes, my dreams, and again (and maybe even more importantly) lessons learned. During speaking engagements, sometimes people cry at my words of encouragement, shake their heads at lessons I have learned, others simply hug me and say “thank you.”
Back to my question about whether or not Miss Native American UofA’s role is simply getting dolled up, putting on the crown, smiling, and waving– I found that that was only half the job. The other half comes from the sincerity in the message I transmit through carefully chosen words. For me, a common theme became that one does not have to have a crown to serve, to teach, to inspire, and to learn. Many who are far from wearing a crown have inspired me: that veteran on the frontlines fighting for freedom, that woman who survives domestic abuse, that woman who runs her own business, that young lady who is proud of her Navajo soul, and that frail yet strong grandmother who is carrying on her teachings.
Congratulations on your title and using it to positively influence others. The youth of this country need to see people in the public eye serving others.
Congratulations on your achievement. Always good to see someone leading the way with their accomplishments. You are an inspiration.
Congratulations Candace for wearing your “crown” well. I appreciate your honesty with regards your struggle and evaluation of the real role of Miss Native American UofA. I’m happy that you have found fulfillment in discharging your duties, giving inspirations through your moving speeches. Without you knowing the full impact of your reign, many Americans have probably been awakened about the plight of Native Americans through the life experiences that you shared with them. You are right in saying that one doesn’t need a crown in order to teach, to inspire, to learn for in reality pageant crowns will be gone in a year’s reign but the real crown jewels are the goodness in you. Again, congratulations!
It is true and the you don’t need to wear a crown in order to do good in the world or you don’t need one to be looked upon as a hero. But sometimes you need to have people wear a crown to give those people a bit of a nudge in the right direction. To have someone lead by example so that others can act and do their own heroism in their own way.
Very inspiring, hope this energy of serving one other can be followed by other people.
congratulations ms. Candace Begody for earning the crown and using it in a very way nice and also for influencing others especially to young adults. you did a good job. Keep it up and Good luck!
Candace, congratulations on your crown, and more importantly the wisdom you have gained through your experience. It’s so encouraging to see a young person who cares about inspiring, serving and teaching others. Hopefully, you can raise awareness for these important character traits in leading others.
Very inspiring. I don’t understand people who judge others based on race, gender, or even education level. One of the wisest people I ever met was a mostly blind black man who hadn’t gone past the 4th grade, a former boxer. I hope you inspire others to wear their crowns and meet their obligations also.
Monte
Well done, very impressive. You are certainly an inspiration to me
Abe
Congratulations on your achievement. Always good to see someone leading the way with their accomplishments. You are an inspiration.
This is so nice to read. A young person winning something extremely important and using it in a way to help others. This is just great.
Congratulations on your achievement. You are an inspiration.
Its great to see native indian representation!!!!
I work with two forex traders with Navajo heritage and I love hearing about their history. Its more than what you learn at school that’s for sure.
As a part of a minority in the US myself, I applaud the efforts that you are doing for you and your people.
I am in charge of a learn Spanish for kids program and seeing a lot of minorities taking back their identity is gratifying to see.
Well done.