[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 141 (Wednesday, September 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ZUNI OLLA MAIDENS

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. TERESA LEGER FERNANDEZ

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 11, 2024

  Ms. LEGER FERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Zuni Olla 
Maidens for the critical role they play in Zuni culture, establishing 
themselves as ambassadors for all Pueblo communities and proving that 
traditions are not only necessary for the soul but all future 
generations.
  The Zuni Olla Maidens perform a delicate dance that includes jars or 
ollas balanced on top of their heads. It is breathtaking to watch. For 
this beautiful dance, they have been rightfully honored as 2024 
National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellows.
  The dance brings together the beauty of the music together with 
colors and jewelry and clothing to bring beauty to our world. There is 
a power in this ceremony that flows before the singing, the drums and 
the rattles. The Zuni songs remind us how small we are in this world 
and that we need to remember the origins and culture of our people and 
our homes.
  I am honored to recognize the significance of these matriarchs. Where 
there are powerful women, there are powerful families and communities. 
Let the traditions of the Zuni people ring forever in the halls of 
Congress.

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