It was truly an honor to be part of the 57th Annual Ééhániih Day on Aug. 1, which is my second time attending. Located at the base of the sacred Navajo Mountain, also known as Naatsis’áán, it is a place that holds deep meaning for all of us as Diné citizens.
During the era of the Long Walk, the 10,348-foot Naatsis’áán remained our home and protector to our people. It kept some of our people safe. And today, Naatsis’áán continues to watch over us. Because of the strength and sacrifice of our ancestors and elders, we are still here, still speaking our language, still living our way of life.
What touched me most was seeing our elders and our young people together, laughing, sharing stories, walking the trails, and being a family. I am so happy to meet with so many of you, hear your voices, and feel the deep love and pride we have for this sacred area of Navajo land. My office was proud to serve free hot dogs, but what truly filled my heart was the joy of seeing community in its fullest form.
To our young people, this mountain is your classroom. Ask questions. Listen to your elders. Walk with pride. Your journey begins here.
To our elders, ahéhee’. Thank you for never letting us forget who we are.
Ééhániih Day is more than a celebration. It’s a homecoming. It’s a reminder that our strength comes from the land and one another.
The day was filled with three-legged races, watermelon contests, and horse-riding races that brought out the smiles and laughter of our people.
Ahéhee’ to everyone who made the two-day event special.
-Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren
