On Thurs., Aug. 14, I had a productive meeting with Arizona Representative Eli Crane to discuss opportunities to grow the Navajo Nation’s economy while addressing the urgent needs of our communities.
Our focus was on attracting outside resources that can create sustainable jobs, generate tax revenue and provide direct benefits to our people, such as increasing access to fresh produce in areas where it is desperately needed.
We both recognize that economic growth must be tied to the well-being of our communities. By working with partners who respect our sovereignty and understand our vision, we can build a stronger economy that not only employs our people but nourishes them as well.
In addition to economic development, we discussed the importance of strengthening collaboration on Arizona Water Rights Settlements. Too many of our families have lived without reliable access to clean water for far too long. These settlements are not just legal agreements, they are lifelines that will serve hundreds of Navajo people and restore dignity to communities that have waited decades for this basic necessity.
I appreciate Representative Crane’s openness to working with us on solutions that honor our priorities and respect our people. Moving forward, we will continue to seek partnerships that bring real, measurable improvements to Navajo lives, jobs in our communities, food on our tables, and clean water in our homes.
Together, we can build a future where the Navajo Nation thrives economically, sustains its people, and protects its resources for generations to come.
-Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren