Katya Faris, MA ethnomusicology, MA Jyotisha/Vedic Astrology, is from Hindustan, Indiana, and is a certified Jyotishi, or sidereal Vedic astrologer, Middle Eastern dance artist and music producer, Tarot practitioner, and Master level Reiki healing practitioner.  Part of her heritage is “Black Dutch” Melungeon, Cherokee and Choctaw.

In this episode, Heather Andolina, Board President of the Melungeon Heritage Association, speaks with Katya about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), its symptoms, and possible connections to the Melungeon people, as well as Katya’s personal journey in learning about her own mixed-ancestry through genetic testing, connection to the Trail of Tears, as well as how her ancestry influences her work in Jyotisha Vedic Astrology, music, and dance.

Melungeon Voices is produced by Lis Malone (www.lismalone.com) and presented by the Melungeon Heritage Association. For more information please visit them on the web at www.melungeon.org to learn more and become a member.