WEEKLY UPDATES

A glimpse into our office's week

President Nygren Meets with USDA Deputy Secretary Vaden to Advance Food Sovereignty, Tribal Consultations, and Research Partnerships

This week, President Nygren held his first meeting with USDA Deputy Secretary Vaden since the Deputy Secretary's July confirmation. The discussion was positive and included an invitation for the Deputy Secretary to visit the Navajo Nation.

The American Academy of Pediatrics Disagrees with Kennedy on Vaccines

On August 19, 2025, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a notice that recommended children between 6 months and 23 months old receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Their stance is contrary to Secretary Kennedy's, who announced earlier this summer that the CDC would no longer recommend the shots to that age range.

WEEK IN REVIEW

Noteworthy headlines you might have missed

"The Last Dance": Gathering of Nations Powwow to Conclude After 43 years in 2026

Native News Online

After 43 years, the Gathering Nations of Powwow, billed as the largest powwow in North America, will come to an end on April 24-25, 2026. Read More.

US Appeals Court Puts the Brakes on Contested Land Transfer for Arizona Copper Mine

Indian Country Today

A U.S. appeals court has temporarily blocked the transfer of federal forest land in Arizona to a pair of international companies that plan to mine one of the largest copper deposits in North America. Read More.

Navajo Nation Celebrates Navajo Code Talkers Day

Native News Online

On August 14, the Navajo Nation and beyond celebrate National Navajo Code Talkers Day to honor the legacy of 400 Diné Marines who transmitted messages in their Native language during combat in World War II. Read More.

Navajo Man Enters Race for Arizona's Largest Congressional District

Indian Country Today

Former Arizona State Representative Eric Descheenie has joined the race for U.S. Congress in Arizona's largest district, where he will face off against former Navajo nation President Jonathan Nez for the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican incumbent Representative Eli Crane.

Navajo Business Owner Part of Larger Effort to Build Up Tribal Nation's Economy

Indian Country Today

Roddell Denetso, a Navajo entrepreneur in Shiprock, New Mexico, founded Black Streak Apparel, a sports apparel business that designs and ships custom uniforms, with his designs featuring in the film Rez Ball.

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

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