My journey to become the first Native American US Poet Laureate

Available for over a year

Joy Harjo survived prejudice and abuse, failed marriages and single motherhood to become one of America's most acclaimed poets. In 2019, she was appointed the US Poet Laureate, becoming the first Native American in history to be awarded the post. Her poetry is deeply rooted in indigenous histories and myths but part of her inspiration comes from jazz, including the Miles Davis tracks her father played in the car when she was a child. Joy's latest poetry collection is called An American Sunrise and in April 2020, she was appointed to a second term as Poet Laureate. Presenter: Emily Webb Producer: Maryam Maruf Picture: Joy Harjo Credit: Getty Images