In a landmark event near U.S. Highway 89, close to Flagstaff, Arizona, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren signed a warranty deed that brings significant acreage into trust for the Navajo Nation. This move, the first of its kind since 2016, is seen as a strategic step towards economic revitalization and self-sufficiency for the Navajo community.
Reinforcing commitments through land trusts:
The ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing relationship between the Navajo Nation and the federal government, underscoring a mutual commitment to honor the promises made under the 1974 Settlement Act. This act was pivotal in addressing the injustices faced by Navajos who were displaced due to federal policies. President Nygren, addressing attendees at the event, emphasized the importance of these lands in fulfilling federal obligations. “These lands that are taken into trust for the Navajo Nation are integral to the federal government’s duties to support the Navajos in Arizona,” he stated.
The last acquisition of this nature occurred in September 2016 when the Navajo Nation added 85.68 acres in Tse Bonito, New Mexico, to its trust lands. This recent acquisition marks a renewed effort to utilize land management as a tool for economic and community development.
A significant aspect of this land acquisition is the planned development of a gaming facility in collaboration with the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise (NNGE). This project is expected to foster considerable economic growth, creating around 100 new jobs and providing a new source of revenue for the Navajo Nation. According to Native News Online, President Nygren elaborated on the economic implications, stating, “Rents collected by the Navajo Nation through leasing to NNGE will directly benefit the Diné Relocatee Fund, which supports relocated Navajos under the Settlement Act.”
The focus on employment is particularly noteworthy, with NNGE’s workforce comprising predominantly Navajo individuals—85%, with an additional 5% from other tribal communities. This initiative not only aims to generate financial returns but also to provide substantial employment opportunities for the Navajo people, reinforcing the tribe’s commitment to self-reliance and sustainable development.
Collaborative efforts for sustained growth:
The warranty deed signing was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Bryan Newland, BIA Director Bryan Mercier, BIA Navajo Regional Director Deborah Shirley, and Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley. These leaders, along with other federal and tribal officials, reiterated their dedication to supporting the Navajo Nation’s economic development endeavors.
Assistant Secretary Newland, in his remarks, affirmed the federal government’s commitment to upholding its trust responsibilities and enhancing economic opportunities for the Navajo Nation. This collaborative approach between the Navajo Nation and various federal agencies exemplifies a strong partnership, aiming to facilitate long-term development and prosperity for the Navajo people through thoughtful land management and innovative projects.
