Wááshindoon Weekly

July 7, 2023

Executive Director's Corner

Yá'át'ééh,


The Navajo Nation Washington Office (NNWO) continues to work tirelessly to address pressing issues impacting the Navajo Nation and all Indigenous communities across the United States. This past week, our efforts have spanned from New Mexico to Washington D.C., demonstrating our unwavering commitment to addressing critical matters of tribal sovereignty, justice, and societal welfare. 


The NNWO made its presence felt at the Not Invisible Act Commission Hearing held in New Mexico. The hearing was a crucial platform to address the persisting crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous peoples—a tragic issue that has been overlooked for far too long. The First Lady’s participation in these discussions is a testament to the Nygren-Montoya Administration’s dedication to bring justice and closure for victims and their families. It's a poignant reminder that these are not just statistics, but individuals whose absence creates ripples of pain in their communities.


In Washington D.C., the NNWO hosted visitors from the National UNITY Conference, further emphasizing commitment to fostering unity and collaboration among Indigenous youth. The conference served as an opportunity to engage in dialogue, share experiences, and work towards a shared vision for the future. 


This week we also cover issues regarding tribal sovereignty. The recent veto by Maine’s Governor on a bill to expand tribal sovereignty to the Wabanaki Alliance was a setback in the continuous struggle for self-governance. The NNWO's believes in the pivotal role of tribal sovereignty in preserving Indigenous cultures, determining their futures, and achieving true self-determination.


On a similar note, the recent 10th Circuit Court issued a ruling on justifications relating to traffic tickets. It may seem mundane, but the decision carries significant implications for tribal jurisdiction.


The NNWO's ongoing work underscores our unwavering dedication to the Navajo people. Our engagement in these issues interweaves policy and the affirmation of Indigenous peoples' resilience, sovereignty, and rightful place in national conversations. No matter the challenge, the NNWO stands resolute in our advocacy, echoing the voices of the Navajo Nation and all Indigenous communities from coast to coast.


Ahéhee’

Weekly Updates

Photo Source: NNWO

Healing the Spirit of Native Youth


On July 06, 2023, the Navajo Nation Washington Office was honored to have been visited by a delegation of our native youth who traveled from various parts of the United States to partake in the annual five-day youth event known as the National UNITY Conference held this year in Washington DC. 

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Maine Governor Veto's Tribal Sovereignty



On July 6, 2023, Maine legislators failed to override Governor’s Janet Mills veto on a bill that would have expanded the sovereignty of Wabanaki Alliance.

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Tenth Circuit Rejects Oklahoma’s Jurisdiction Claims in Traffic Citation Case


Last week, the U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the city of Tulsa is not authorized to issue traffic tickets to members of American Indian tribes.

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Photo source:  NNWO

Navajo Nation First Lady Addresses the Not Invisible Act Commission Held in Albuquerque, New Mexico


On June 30th, the Navajo Nation First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren gave the welcoming address at the Not Invisible Act Commission in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

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Additional News and Updates

Federal Register

Presidential Declaration of a Major Disaster for Public Assistance Only for the Navajo Nation


This is a Notice of the Presidential declaration of a major disaster for Public Assistance Only for the Navajo Nation (FEMA–4703–DR), dated 04/11/202.

More Information

Tax Status of Tribally Chartered Corporations


The U.S. Department of the Treasury is hosting a Tribal Consultation on the tax status of Tribally chartered corporations. The consultations will be held Wednesday, June 21, 2023, and Thursday, June 22, 2023, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. 

Comment Deadline: August 18, 2023

More Information

Upcoming Events

National Tribal Opioid Summit

August 22-24, 2023


The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB) will host the National Tribal Opioid Summit at Tulalip Washington from August 22-24, 2023, to address the intersection of Covid 19 and the opioid crisis throughout our communities.

More Information

National Transportation in Indian Country

September 24-28, 2023


The National Transportation in Indian Country Conference (NTICC) is the one-stop-shop transportation conference for tribes, by tribes. NTICC offers access to relevant training and an opportunity for Tribal transportation professionals to engage with federal officials and their Tribal transportation peers regarding Tribal transportation issues and challenges.  

More Information

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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