Bird Williams Singer Spotlight

Bird Williams, top middle row at our Spring 2024 “A Beautiful Noise” concert. Photo by HNTRGRAPHY (hntrphoto.com)

Name: Bird Williams

Section: A2

Generation: The Baby Boomers Generation (1946-1964)

CWC Tenure: 1990-2015, 2022-present

What inspired you to join the Common Woman Chorus?

We're a joyful, justice-centered organization whose queer gatherings allow us to share and harmonize together and each concert ensures that our our voices and messaging are heard and celebrated.

In what ways has being part of the Common Woman Chorus influenced your personal identity and sense of belonging within the LGBTQ+ community?

Common Woman Chorus helped me find and amplify my voice and use it and to ensure revolution through community and song.

Can you share a favorite memory from your time in the chorus that had a significant impact on you?

Back when NC state workers had to be closeted or risk losing their livelihoods, nurse-of-the-year Col. Gretha Cammermeyer was forced by the US Army to retire early after being asked if she was a lesbian. Two long-time chorus members (later-director Cindy Bizzell and founding member LeAnn Wallace) feared they would be fired if video of their duet was shared, but rewrote the lyrics to a military marching song, donned the uniforms, marched on stage and sang "Hail and farewell dear Greta Cammermeyer, you've done so well. Now please retire. You're Army all the way but you can't stay now that we know you're gay...." (And Gretha later sued, won, was reinstated, and wrote a book about her ordeal.)

What advice would you give to the next generation of LGBTQ+ singers interested in joining our chorus?

Makes your voices heard, volunteer where needed, and do all you can to help build and sustain this community.

Click HERE to watch Bird’s full Singer Spotlight interview!