This morning, I had the honor of riding to the Navajo Nation Council Chambers alongside Council Delegates Casey Allen Johnson, Germaine Simonson, Rick Nez, and Brenda Jesus.
Together, we honored the history of leaders who came before us. We also rode for those who cannot be here today, carrying their messages to their elected leadership.
What made this morning beautiful was the presence of our young ones, riding alongside us. They witnessed something powerful – the Navajo Nation government and its branches coming together for them.
We were also blessed by our elders, including Gene Shepherd, a skilled cowboy, who sang traditional songs for our horses and our safety. These songs of protection and guidance are reminders of why we are here this summer session.
We rode out from the Window Rock Fairgrounds, heading east toward New Mexico and then north to Window Rock. As the sun rose in front of us, it reminded us of the sacred responsibility in the choices we make today.
At the Council Chambers, we listened closely as Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty and Speaker Crystalyne Curley, who stood in solidarity with the Peshlakai Family, who lost their daughters and sisters, the late DeShauna and Del Lynn, to drunk driving. Their loved ones walked to the chambers again this year, continuing their awareness through Angels Against Drunk Driving. “Let’s stop talking about it and let’s just work together,” said Council delegate Johnson.
I also recognize Council Delegate Dr. Andy Nez, who rode modern horses in the form of bicycles. With the support of Silver Stallion, bike riders rode from Sawmill, Ariz., this morning to the Council chambers. The effort by Dr. Nez is a reminder that taking care of our physical health includes our mental health. Riding to the Council Chambers was not just symbolic; it is healing the mind, body, and spirit.
Whether on horseback, bikes, or foot, we carry the messages of our ancestors and elders. Our modes of transportation today connect us to our elders, our teachings, and our future. As we head into a long week of deliberation and decision-making, we carry our people with us – in our hearts, in our thoughts, and in our actions.
This is what it looks like to honor and serve the Navajo Nation government. This is how we walk forward, together.
— Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren
