CAMERON — Navajo Nation President Nygren joined community leaders, chapter officials, Navajo Nation Council delegates, former elected leaders, project partners, and residents on Wednesday to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Cameron Chapter House, marking a major milestone in a project that has been years in the making.
The groundbreaking reflected decades of advocacy, planning, and collaboration by Cameron residents and leaders who worked to ensure the community would have a modern facility capable of serving future generations.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers recognized former chapter officials, past administrations, community advocates, and local residents whose efforts helped move the project forward. Attendees applauded the many individuals who continued to raise concerns about the condition of the former Chapter House and advocate for a replacement facility over the years.
Current chapter officials shared memories of growing up in Cameron and attending meetings, events, and community gatherings in the former Chapter House. Seeing construction begin on a new facility carried special meaning, they said, knowing future generations will have a stronger and safer place to gather, access services, and participate in local government.
Speakers also emphasized the importance of community engagement, encouraging residents to continue attending chapter meetings, staying informed, and making their voices heard on issues affecting their communities. They noted that the new Chapter House stands as an example of what can be accomplished when community members remain involved and work together toward a common goal.
The former Cameron Chapter House was demolished in August 2023 after years of planning and legislative efforts to replace the aging facility. The Cameron Chapter demonstrated its commitment to the project by contributing $80,000 toward the New Chapter House Construction Fund. Following project review and cost analysis, an additional $4.84 million in Sihasin funding was identified to support completion of the project.
President Nygren expressed gratitude to the Navajo Nation Council for approving the legislation that provided funding for the project and acknowledged the strong partnership between the Legislative and Executive Branches that helped move the project forward.
“This project reflects what can be accomplished when we work together,” said President Nygren. “I want to thank the Navajo Nation Council, Cameron Chapter leadership, community members, and all of our partners who helped make this day possible. Investments like this strengthen our communities, create opportunities, and ensure our local governments have the facilities they need to serve our people.”
President Nygren noted that projects such as the new Chapter House support local businesses, create jobs, and generate economic opportunities while improving services for residents. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among the Navajo Nation Council, local leaders, enterprises, federal partners, contractors, and community members to advance projects that strengthen communities across the Navajo Nation.
During the event, attendees heard testimonies from community leaders and former delegates, received project updates from chapter officials, and listened to keynote remarks from President Nygren, Speaker Crystalyne Curley, and Harry Singer of Keyah Construction. The ceremony concluded with a ceremonial shovel groundbreaking and a community meal celebrating the occasion.
Once completed, the new Cameron Chapter House will provide a safe, modern, and functional space for chapter meetings, public services, community events, and local governance activities. The Chapter has 36 months to encumber the funds and continue advancing the project toward completion.
The new Cameron Chapter House will stand as a lasting symbol of community determination, collaboration, and progress for generations to come.
