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Yá'át'ééh,
This past week was a particularly active one for the Navajo Nation Washington Office, as we strive to represent our community's needs and priorities at the national level. Our President, Dr. Nygren, took center stage and demonstrated leadership on our behalf in two influential congressional committees.
In the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, President Nygren testified on the vital Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project. This project's importance cannot be overstated as it seeks to address significant water supply challenges faced by our community. The President's testimony provided a crucial opportunity to highlight the project's ongoing needs and to ensure that our Nation's water security remains at the forefront of legislative discussions.
Subsequently, President Nygren represented Navajo interests before the House Natural Resources Committee Subcommittee on Energy and Minerals. The focus of this hearing was on the recent secretarial order establishing a 10 mile buffer zone around Chaco Canyon despite the Nations strong objections. President Nygren emphasized the need for robust and meaningful consultation underscoring the importance of respectful and understanding for tribal sovereignty. Furthermore the President agrees with protecting sacred sites but by doing so in a balanced manner that would not affect the interest of Navajo allotment owners who depend on the income from oil and gas royalties.
In addition to these congressional engagements, the Navajo Nation Washington Office was delighted to host a Meet and Greet reception. This event served to strengthen our relationships with our federal partners. It provided a platform for our partners to interact directly with our staff and begin dialogues on the priorities laid out by President Nygren and the 25th Navajo Nation Council. We believe that such interactions are key to securing understanding and cooperation from our federal partners.
As we look ahead to the coming week, our attention turns to the crucial issue of supporting our post-1971 uranium miners. We are planning engagements up on Capitol Hill regarding the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. Our aim is to advocate for the rights and welfare of those in our community who have been impacted by uranium mining, affirming that their experiences and sacrifices are acknowledged and addressed.
The Navajo Nation Washington Office is committed to promoting the needs and aspirations of our community at every level of government. We will continue to forge ahead, advocating for our people's rights, resources, and cultural heritage. We are grateful for the support of our community and our federal partners as we navigate these significant issues. We will continue to provide updates on our efforts and progress in these areas.
Ahéhee’
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