Today, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren attended the Nihizaad éí ‘Ííńá ‘Át’é Conference “Our Language Is Life” in celebration of International Mother Language Day at the Navajo Nation Library & Museum.
The free community event brought together families, learners, scholars, and cultural leaders for workshops and sessions centered on strengthening Diné language efforts. Presentations highlighted community and online initiatives, Diné research on language and culture, practical at home learning approaches, films presented in Nihizaad, and informational resource booths connecting families with tools and support.
During his address, President Nygren emphasized that language revitalization requires collective commitment. In 2024, he signed historic legislation designating Diné Bizaad as the official language of the Navajo Nation and issued an executive order directing its integration into daily government operations.
“Designating Diné Bizaad as our official language was not the end of a journey. It was the beginning of a mandate, a responsibility to ensure that future generations will continue our teachings, our language, and our culture.”
He outlined practical steps already underway, including a Navajo word of the day email for employees, bilingual signage, and increased use of Diné language in professional spaces. He also highlighted immersion efforts in child care centers, distribution of Navajo language books to families, scholarships for students demonstrating bilingual proficiency, and efforts to expand certified language teachers.
