Joan Henry

United States

Tsalagi (Cherokee), Nde’ (Apache), and Arawaka heritage

Dekanogisgi (Traditional Song-Carrier) & Elisi (Grandmother)

It has been Ms. Henry’s privilege to be a carrier of songs for elders among the Nde’ (Apache), Coast Salish, Shoshone, Paiute, Hopi, Chippewa/Cree, Dakota and other nations, that these songs might be kept alive and heard when needed. Raised to listen deeply from an early age, she is best known as a singer and stage performer whose youth was filled with her grandmothers’ & elders’ stories, songs and healing plant-knowledge.
In this time of prophecies, she is honoured to be a Northern Representative to the Council of the Eagle, Condor, Quetzal & Colibri.

“A traditional singer’s responsibility in our Indigenous culture is to negotiate the space between the invisible and visible worlds for the People; sometimes as a welcomer, sometimes as an announcer, breaking trail, if you will, for what will follow and holding the ground for the work to be done. Actually, the songs themselves, sung correctly, do that work. The singer’s job is to hold a safe, steady basket, in this case, so that the songs, the visuals and the dancer may all do their work and the healing & rejuvenation of Mother Earth and all her beings may continue.”

Joan Henry’s deep connection to the earth, her wisdom as a traditional song-carrier, and her role as a cultural bridge are vital to the spirit of Kindred Spirits Ireland. As a respected elder and spiritual guide, Joan’s presence brings a profound sense of rootedness and continuity to the work of uniting global communities. Her contributions to the preservation of Indigenous songs and healing practices help restore balance and honour the sacred, laying a foundation for peace and understanding. Joan’s leadership within the Council of the Eagle, Condor, Quetzal & Colibri ensures that the voices.