Viola Cordova


Viola Cordova was a philosopher, artist, author, and member of the Jicarilla Apache tribe. She was one of the first Native American women to earn a PhD in philosophy.

Early life

Viola Cordova grew up in Taos, New Mexico; her father was a member of the Jicarilla Apache tribe, and her mother was Hispanic. She earned her bachelor's degree from Idaho State University, and her MA and PhD in philosophy from the University of New Mexico.

Career

She served with Anne Waters as co-editor of the American Philosophical Association's Newsletter on American Indians in Philosophy from its inception in 2001 until her death.
In his book, What Has No Place, Remains, Nicholas Shrubsole notes that "Viola Cordova reminds us that the act of listening to understand cannot be premised upon the desire to see a distortion of one’s self."

Death and legacy

Cordova died on November 2, 2002. After her death, the University of New Mexico named an annual lecture series in her honor.

Works

Conceptual frameworks as a source of cultural distinctions The concept of monism in Navajo thought How It Is: A Native American Creation Story by V. F. Cordova Who We Are: An Exploration of Identity by V. F. Cordova Hearing Other Voices: A Series of Talks and Lectures by Viola Cordova, PhD