Women of the Dawn

Poetry

Woman of the Dawn

by Wenona Gardner

Wabun-Anung (Morning Star)

Stockbridge-Munsee band of Mohican Nation

I am the heart of my family,

I am the center of my community

I carry the nation on my back

I carry the life of tomorrow in my soul.

I rise above the violence.

Bones heal. Bruises fade. My fear I face.

The rage I channel to protect myself.

To protect my children.

I walk away from the destruction

with my Great Creator by my side.

I am the one who can change the tide.

I am the one who will say STOP!

No more forever.

For I am the Woman of the Dawn

I rise with the morning sun.

Blazing with light, love, and hope.

I hold the future within me.

National Aboriginal Circle Against Family Violence