Navajo Grassroots Overwhelmingly Oppose Water Settlement

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“Half of the Navajo Nation are between the ages of 18 and 24 which means that the central government needs to listen to the youth,”

states Sarana Riggs of Next Indigenous Generation.

Opposition is further evidenced by the growing number of chapter resolutions
passed opposing the settlement.

“Our vision for the future includes a just transition away from the coal-based economy, a diverse and sustainable economy based on traditional values, and true self sufficiency for the Navajo Nation. We will sign these things away if we agree to the settlement.”

“We are for a settlement agreement that honors our historical roots that predate American laws and allow for true input from the Navajo people.”

Affirms Marshall Johnson, Lead Organizer with To Nizhoni Ani.

“This settlement is being fast tracked to satisfy Kyl and McCains' efforts to continue the legacy of free and cheap electricity and water delivery to central and southern Arizona. It's not about providing much needed services to the Navajo people as they claim. This should really be called the 'Keep Navajo Generating Station Open Settlement Agreement'”

The Navajo Nation Council itself has questioned the settlement since Kyl first announced it in February.

“We understand that the Council is under a lot of pressure from DC to sign this agreement and we are very proud of them for not being bullied into it; ”

Says Don Yellowman, President of the Forgotten People Corporation.

“But I think that if the Council votes in favor of the settlement, they would be going against their own people. And I don't think that would be something the people would soon forget.”

The Diné Water Rights Committee includes Forgotten People Corporation, Black Mesa Water Coalition, To Nizhoni Ani, Diné Citizens Against Ruining the Environment, Hada'asidi, Next Indigenous Generation, Council Advocating an Indigenous Manifesto, and many Navajo individuals.

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posted June 14, 2012 7:50 am edt