About MaDonna
MaDonna Feather Cruz is a distinguished Native American woman living with disabilities, whose unwavering commitment to making a difference in her community and beyond has earned her widespread recognition. As a proud advocate for Native wellness, raising awareness about the critical issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW), and cultural preservation, she has dedicated her life to championing causes close to her heart.
MaDonna was named after her aunt MaDonna Thunder Hawk. Her parents were Denise (Knight) Feather and Walter Feather. MaDonna is an enrolled member of the Round Valley Indian Tribes. As a young child MaDonna grew up in Ukiah and Napa, California. It was a true blessing for MaDonna to grow up traveling around the country with her grandmother Norma (Fulwilder) Knight to Native American conferences, meetings, and trainings. When she was taking a break from traveling, MaDonna participated in grassroots meetings held around the dinner table in Napa, CA. Guests at these meetings were extremely varied, from the Black Panthers to Cesar Chavez, or Madonna's uncle Russell Means, who was of the American Indian movement and Hollywood fame. Since birth, culture has been an integral part of MaDonna's life, and now she carries it on as a traditional singer, dancer, and artist.
MaDonna is married to her high school sweetheart, and together they have two outstanding children all living in Sonoma County. MaDonna is very committed to her Native American community, currently serving on the following boards:
With a strong sense of identity and a deep connection to her Native American heritage, MaDonna brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her advocacy work. Her unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of Native American communities is rooted in a profound belief in the power of community and the strength derived from shared cultural values.
At the forefront of her advocacy efforts is MaDonna's tireless work in raising awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). She has been instrumental in shedding light on this pressing issue, urging for justice, and working towards creating a safer and more equitable society for Indigenous women. Through her determined activism, she strives to ensure that the voices of the victims are heard and their stories are acknowledged, fostering a greater understanding of the challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
MaDonna is also a passionate advocate for native wellness, recognizing the importance of holistic health and cultural practices in achieving overall well-being. With her extensive knowledge and understanding of traditional healing methods and the interconnection between mind, body, and spirit, she works tirelessly to promote the well-being of Native Americans. Through her efforts, she aims to preserve and revitalize traditional practices, empowering individuals to take control of their health and embrace their cultural heritage.
In addition to her advocacy work, MaDonna as an influential cultural ambassador, bridging the gap between traditional practices and the modern world. Her eloquence and insightful presentations have garnered acclaim, allowing her to share the richness and diversity of Native American traditions with a wide audience. Through her speaking engagements, she cultivates understanding, respect, and appreciation for Indigenous cultures, fostering a spirit of unity and inclusivity.
MaDonna's remarkable contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades, reflecting her exemplary leadership within her community. Her commitment to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives serves as a testament to her dedication and compassion.As a proud Native American woman living with disabilities, MaDonna Feather Cruz embodies resilience, strength, and determination. Her unwavering advocacy, commitment to cultural preservation, and tireless efforts to raise awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women inspire others to join the cause and work towards a more just and inclusive society. Through her indomitable spirit and unwavering passion, she is making a lasting impact on her community and the lives of those she encounters, leaving a legacy of empowerment and social change.
