Native Threads Featured Profile: Sonya Lynn Flores
Sonya Lynn Florez was born and raised on the Pala Indian Reservation in Southern California. "Growing up on the reservation made me the person I am today. I come from a long line of strong women. So for me, growing up in Pala with my mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother showed me the kind of woman I wanted to be." Of Ute, Cupeno and Luiseno decent, Sonya has been sharing her pride and respect for tribal culture since she began dancing at the age of 10. Trained by a cousin in fancy shawl and northern traditional, Sonia proved to be a natural and in spite of her young age she began to teach others in the village the steps and movements she had learned. Sonia recalls as the kids learned the steps, they became involved in the dance, I could see their confidence building and I liked seeing it.
Because of the grace and beauty of her dance the fluidity of movement Sonya became Princess of the North County Intertribal Association, a position she held for two years running, and an unprecedented honor. Aside from winning countless prizes for her dance at powwows throughout the state of California, Sonia has performed at special events honoring Congressman from California and Iowa.
Sonya has also appeared on good morning America, entertainment tonight, PM Magazine, an Australian television as well as various other types of gatherings and celebrations throughout the United States. "When I dance", Sonya says, "nothing else matters. I clear my mind, open my heart and just move."
Currently, this busy mother of three is on tour with the Kevin Locke National Dance ensemble in "The Drum is the Thunder, The Flute is the Wind" with upcoming shows scheduled for New York City, The Smithsonian Institute, Vermont, Pennsylvania and Michigan. I love the show, the people, the new places... it's all amazing!
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