Wááshindoon Weekly

August 18, 2025

WEEKLY UPDATES

A glimpse into our office's week

Expanded RECA Program Applications Launched


The application forms for the newly expanded Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) program are now live on the Department of Justice's RECA website. The deadline to submit claims is December 31, 2027. Please be aware of scammers and fraudulent or predatory attorneys who will offer to assist you in the claims process in exchange for a fee. No Diné should be paying for claims assistance, as the Navajo Nation has programs and advocates to support victims seeking to file a claim.


NNWO Advocates for

Nomination to

USDA Tribal Advisory Committee


This week, NNWO began working with the Navajo Nation to nominate at least one official to serve on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Tribal Advisory Committee. This important body advises the Secretary of Agriculture on policies and programs impacting Tribal Nations and Native communities across the country at least twice a year.

FDA Considers Revoking Pfizers

COVID-19 Authorization



On Wednesday, the FDA declared that they are considering revoking the authorization given to Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for healthy children younger than 5 years of age. This could make the upcoming winter season much more difficult for parents, as it would create another barrier for them to access the vaccine for their children during peak respiratory virus season.

WEEK IN REVIEW

Noteworthy headlines you might have missed

Anti-Uranium Exhibit in Santa Fe Seeks to Decolonize Maps

Indian Country Today



The opening of the Anti-Uranium Mapping Project at CENTER in Santa Fe seeks to, among other objectives, counteract the censorship and intimidation. Read More.

Indigenous Fashion Gala Returns to L.A. with "Matriarchs of the Future - Sovereign Style" Theme

Navajo News Online


The Indigenous Fashion Collective will bring back its annual Indigenous Fashion Gala back to Los Angeles on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at the Autry Museum of the American West. Read More.


IAIA Appoints Dr. Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo) as Next President

Native News Online


The Institute of American Indian Arts, the University for Indigenous Creative Excellence, is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo) as its next president, effective August 1, 2025.


She will succeed Dr. Robert Martin (Cherokee Nation), who will retired on July 31, following a remarkable tenure defined by visionary leadership and institutional growth.


LEGISLATIVE FOCUS

Upcoming Congressional Committee Activity

Both chambers are on recess through the end of August.

For more information regarding topics provided in the newsletter, please contact NNWO at info@nnwo.org

Navajo Nation Washington Office | www.nnwo.org

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