Interview of Dioghandih

Dioghandih was born on sovereign Haudenosaunee territory of Onondaga Nation. They are a two-spirit, queer, hip-hop artist, public speaker and producer. In this interview, they speak about their complicated relationship to New York State and its historical violence as well as their early education both on the reservation and in non-native schools. They elaborate on how their queerness and indigeneity felt held in Oaklands’ black, brown, and indigenous communities. Dio raps Pussy Vortex and Puff Puff Passion, and recounts hip hop’s ability to story tell and explore all aspects of their identity.

Date of Interview:

November 12, 2019

Location of Interview:

Chinatown, New York City

Place of birth:

Onondaga Nation

Pronouns:

They/Them

Interviewed by

Aviva Silverman