Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren

Buu Nygren
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Weekly Updates in Navajo to the Navajo People

  1. Jun 25

    June 25, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, June 25, 2026 1. Introduction 2. LGBTQ+ Equality Day June 26 is LGBTQ+ Equality Day, a reminder that every person deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to live free from discriminationAs Diné people, we speak of kinship and caring for one another; despite differing beliefs, we remain one family with a shared responsibility to treat each other with kindness and compassionStrong communities are built when people feel valued, heard, and welcomed; by finding common ground, we strengthen our families, our Nation, and our future 3. Local Announcements Radio shout out: Jennie Pete from Huerfano, celebrating 101 years oldShout out to Sally Yabeny from the Shiprock RBDO for her work on the NTUA lease at Red MesaLocated: Elias Nelson has been found and is safeLocated: Bernard James has been found and is safeMissing person: Brianna Lynn Benally, 21, last heard from Friday, May 15, 2026, experiencing homelessness in Phoenix, Arizona. Contact: 928-657-8075 4. Life Lesson June is Ya'iishjáásh Chilí, the time of planting early crops; planting requires faith and patience, and like seeds growing unseen, our goals often begin small with progress happening even when we cannot see itEvery positive action is a seed; whether building a career, strengthening family, or serving community, the effort we invest today shapes tomorrow's harvest 5. Frequently Asked Question of the Week 6. Accomplishments Grand opening of the $16 million NTUA Red Mesa District Office, expanding service in the Utah Navajo region; funded by $2.5 million in New Markets and $13.5 million in USDA RUS loans; designed by Dyron Murphy Architects, built by Arviso ConstructionNTUA's Red Mesa Tapaha Solar Farm, a 72-megawatt project on 500+ acres in Red Mesa Chapter, expanded renewable energy on Navajo landEncouraged youth at the Shiprock Summer Youth Enrichment Conference for ages 14 to 23; theme "Arise and Soar" focused on leadership, workforce readiness, and cultural awarenessRibbon cutting for the $7,295,462.88 N55 Highway Rehabilitation in Alamo: 8.26 miles of BIA Route N55 rehabilitated; awarded to Mountain States Constructors and completed June 19, ahead of scheduleVisited a family in Black Mesa who received electricity through NTUA's Light Up Navajo program and a bathroom addition through the Division of Community Development 7. Major Projects Traveled to Red Valley and Cove on June 18 to deliver food boxes to elders through DALTCSVisited NDOT crews on Road N15 repairing potholes; $400+ million approved for roads, 6,000+ potholes filled, 74 new employees hired; partnering with Workforce Development and UNM-Gallup for CDL trainingAviation Summit highlighted the new Navajo Aviation Unit, unifying Air Transportation and Airports Management to strengthen operations and infrastructure planningCrownpoint Modular Office Building advances; site prep complete for the facility replacing five existing offices, with delivery coordination underway through CPMD under Marta Quintana 8. Meet and Greets Honored Senior Police Officer JoDonna Salt upon retirement after 20+ years with Navajo Nation Police in the Kayenta District; Officer Salt will continue public service with Arizona Department of Public Safety 9. Upcoming Events Miss Navajo Nation's 1st Annual Fluted Rock Half and Full Marathon in Kinlichee, Arizona; hosted by Miss Navajo Nation 2025-2026 Camille J. Uentillie, Rocky Mountain Timing, and Navajo YES; Full Marathon at 6:30 a.m., Half Marathon at 7:00 a.m.; contact the Office of Miss Navajo Nation 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  2. Jun 18

    June 18, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, June 18, 2026 1. Introduction 2. Juneteenth Juneteenth (June 19) commemorates the 1865 announcement of freedom to the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation ProclamationA day to honor resilience, reflect on progress, and reaffirm commitment to freedom, dignity, and equality for all 3. Local Announcements Located: Alissandra Begay has been found and is safeLocated: Matthew Earl Etsitty has been located 4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week The Navajo Nation Division of Behavioral and Mental Health Services in Window Rock provides counseling, therapy, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, traditional healing, and wellness programsContact: (928) 871-6240 or (928) 871-6235; after-hours crisis: (928) 551-0508 5. Life Lesson Balance between the four directions and the connection of body and spirit is central to Navajo teachingSeeking help is not weakness but a step toward restoring hózhǫ́; walking in beauty begins with caring for yourself 6. Accomplishments NTEC distributed a record $5.5 million dividend to the Navajo Nation, a 74.6% increase from $3.15 million in September 2025; NTEC contributes $128 million through taxes, royalties, wages, and charitable giving, with total impact expected to exceed $136 millionOak Springs broadband tower will bring wireless internet to over 320 households; the 180-foot tower is part of $50.8 million in NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program investments across the Navajo NationBroadband progress also includes towers in Nazlini and Low Mountain, fiber for 602 families in Ramah, completion of the Navajo Mountain fiber project, and satellite deployment for remote chaptersChee Dodge Elementary access road project addresses traffic safety; Phase 1 used $1.5 million from New Mexico plus grants, the Navajo Nation allocated ~$900,000 through transportation legislation, and Phase 2 (~$700,000) targets completion before the school yearLead waterline replacement completed for Window Rock USD through a $6 million forgivable loan from Arizona WIFA to NTUA, meeting EPA Lead and Copper Rule standards 7. Major Projects Elevate Youth Program to receive a 12-passenger Ford Transit van through $63,631 in ARPA/Fiscal Recovery Funds; serves ~170 students annually in Window Rock ISD with mentoring, leadership, and adventure-based learningVisited five CHID housing program homes in Lukachukai, Round Rock, and Rock Point on June 12; more than $100 million allocated through CHID and HIP, with 45+ homes coordinated with NTUA for electrical connectionsCameron Chapter House groundbreaking held June 17; $4.8 million in legislation signed May 2, 2024, for a new 4,500-sq.-ft. facility replacing two modular buildings used since the 1959 chapterhouse was demolished in August 2023Joined the DCFS Job and Training Expo connecting people with careers, training, and resources; administration wage study increased employee pay to over $14/hour, and $2.2 million invested in the Summer Youth Employment Program 8. Meet and Greets Joined cancer survivors at the Relay For Life in Gallup on June 13; emphasized NDOH early detection efforts and advocacy for RECA reauthorization for families affected by uranium exposureJoined young leaders at the Diné Youth Summer Conference; Star Wars theme introduced students to robotics, drones, GIS, fiber optics, and AI 9. Upcoming Events 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  3. Jun 11

    June 11, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, June 11, 2026 1. Introduction 2. Voter Registration Deadline Today, June 11, is the last day to register for the upcoming Navajo Nation electionRequired: CIB, Social Security card, and driver's licenseElection Administration offices: Eastern Navajo 505-786-2183, Fort Defiance 928-871-7268, Chinle 928-674-2551, Western 928-283-3220, Northern 505-368-1333 3. Local Announcements Missing person: Kelsey Yazzie, 36, male, last seen May 29, 2026, in Pinon, AZ; Chinle Police District 928-674-2111Located: Pearl Duncan has been found and is safe 4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week If you see smoke or a wildfire, report it immediately and stay clear; no roadside photos or drones, which interfere with firefighting aircraftBusiness hours (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.): BIA/Navajo Forestry, (928) 729-2307After hours: Navajo Police Dispatch (928) 871-6111, 6112, or 6113, or BIA Fire Management Dispatch (928) 205-3459; in an emergency call 911 5. Life Lesson Growth takes time: as planting season continues in Ya'iishjááshchilí, crops, goals, and relationships need patience, dedication, and effortThe most important growth happens where we cannot see it; trust the process and keep nurturing what you planted 6. Accomplishments Division of Economic Development Summit, Twin Arrows: Navajo Artisan and Small Business hardship grants reached 117 businesses and 432 artisans ($5,000 to $60,000); SSBCI provides $88.7 million and DED financing up to $20 million via Change Labs, Trans Pecos Bank, and partnersTourism: La Quinta Shonto Hotel opens this year, the $22.5 million Shiprock Pinnacle Hotel underway, and Goulding's Lodge supports 300-plus Navajo jobs, $7 million anticipated annuallyInfrastructure: broadband funding secured, over 2,000 families connected to electricity, over 1,000 to water, 5 wastewater and water treatment facilities underway$35 million ARPA E911 and Rural Addressing Project: visited the Kayenta Next Generation 911 dispatch center; 110 chapters mapped, 72,490 address points, 6.89 million GPS points; Kayenta anticipated by August 2026, Shiprock Incident Command Center by November 2026Visited a Thoreau family's new home: over $100 million for 436-plus homes via the Community Housing and Infrastructure Department and Housing Improvement Program; NTUA, NECA, and partners completing utility connectionsDark Winds set visit: met actors Zahn McClarnon and Jessica Matten and executive producers Chris Eyre and Tina Elmo 7. Major Projects $226,220.07 awarded to Four Season's Construction, LLC for Newcomb Chapter House roof repair and renovations within 365 calendar days10th Annual Navajo Education Conference, June 5, Navajo Nation Museum, with Fielding Graduate University; scholarships doubled from $3.5 million to $7 million, plus a proposed education trust fund$49,000 to Little Foot Construction, LLC for Becenti Chapter Multipurpose Building security and energy efficiency upgrades, anticipated by September 30, 2027 8. Meet and Greets Office of Diné Youth Summer Kick Off, Fort Defiance: basketball clinics, field day, skateboarding, arts and crafts, and open gymNavajo Mountain Community Health Center: toured the clinic and thanked staffShoutout: Al White of Rock Point, Beshbetoh Rodeo 9. Upcoming Events Tuesday, June 16: Job and Training Expo, Chinle High School Gymnasium, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.: employment, education, resume, and skills presentations; resource booths; speaker Cody JesusInfo: NDCFS.org or Gayla James at gayla.james@ndcfs.org 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  4. Jun 4

    June 4, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, June 4, 2026 1. Introduction 2. The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 Signed June 2, 1924, granting U.S. citizenship to all Native Americans while preserving tribal citizenship and identityNavajo citizens in Arizona could not vote until the 1948 Harrison v. Laveen decisionPresident Nygren encourages everyone to vote — it is how you share your voice 3. Local Announcements Birthday shout out: Julia W. Largo of Mariano Lake, NM, 95 years old (born Nov. 3, 1933)Located: Eric Rodney Begay and Raelyn Begay have been found and are safe 4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week Navajo Nation Primary Election registration deadline: June 11, 2026, 5:00 p.m. (DST); Primary Election: July 21, 2026Registration drive: Sat. June 6 and Sun. June 7, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., New Mexico Indian Market, 98th and Central, Albuquerque. Bring CIB, Social Security card, and driver's licenseNavajo Election Administration agency offices: Eastern Navajo 505-786-2183, Fort Defiance 928-871-7268, Chinle 928-674-2551, Western 928-283-3220, Northern 505-368-1333 5. Life Lesson Native veterans teach that service is about something larger than yourselfLeadership is measured not by titles but by sacrifice, discipline, and putting others first 6. Accomplishments Monday, June 1: honored veterans on Navajo Nation Memorial Day with wreath laying and flag refolding for Gold Star familiesJune 2: celebrated completion of the E-Fiber Broadband Project in Navajo Mountain — an $8 million investment in a nine-year, $17 million initiative connecting schools, Utah Navajo Health System facilities, and chapters; over $277 million in broadband investments span AZ, NM, and UTNavajo Nation Silver Jackets Team, the first tribally led program in the U.S., won the USACE 2025 Silver Jackets Team of the Year Award; 21 flood-risk projects since March 2023Navajo Homeowner Assistance Fund: $6.1 million to 48 homeowners in Q1 2026; 365 homeowners and $17.9 million since 2021. Ends Sept. 30, 2026 — Native Community Capital: (855) 628-2272 or nativecap.org 7. Major Projects Eastern Agency senior centers: Church Rock nearing reopening pending OEH inspection; Casamero Lake reopened; Tohajiilee awaiting OEH inspection; Red Rock moving to bidding phaseMay 28 leadership meeting with Hard Rock, Forest Lake, and Black Mesa: Routes 8031, N8027, and N41 paving (4.5-mile segment, 25-mile Pinon–Forest Lake connection), Rocky Ridge water access, ARPA projects for 58 homes, a Black Mesa water system for Yale Point, North Valley, and Oakridge, the Many Mules water system, a new chapter house, a veterans facility, and economic developmentYouth rodeo clinics with Native Land Insurance featured Navajo athletes Derrick Begay, Danielle Lowman, Kassidy Dennison, Faith Holyan, Miles John, Bailey Bates, Erich Rogers, Ty Romo, and Aaron Tsinigine, with NFR qualifiers Shad Mayfield, Jake Barnes, Clay O'Brien Cooper, and Matt SherwoodFive Navajo veterans received keys to new homes in Nazlini (2), Low Mountain, Cottonwood, and Naschitti; as of May 2026: 105 homes under construction, 24 awaiting utility connections, 20 turnkey homes ready, 101 home improvements underway 8. Meet and Greets Joined the Nazlini Veterans Organization on Sunday for their annual Memorial Day Ceremony, "Our Nazlini Heroes Are Never Forgotten – Remembering Those Who Served" 9. Upcoming Events Friday, June 5: Fort Defiance Chapter Treaty Day — trail ride 9 a.m. from the Navajo Nation Museum, Window Rock; song and dance 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; barbecue 3 p.m.; Barnyard Dance 6 p.m.–midnight 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  5. May 28

    May 28, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, May 28, 2026 1. Introduction 2. Treaty Day — June 1, 1868 Treaty Day commemorates the 1868 Treaty that ended forced relocation and allowed the Navajo people to return homeIn 1864, tens of thousands endured the "Long Walk" to eastern New Mexico, suffering hunger, disease, and death at Bosque RedondoThe Treaty made the Navajo Nation one of few Indigenous nations to reclaim their ancestral homeland — a symbol of resilience, sovereignty, and enduring identity 3. Local Announcements Shout-outs: Jimmy and Nevey Francisco (Vander Wagen), Liam Yazzie of the 12U Scouts Baseball (Farmington), the Crosby family (Hogback), the Benallys (Sheep Springs), and Athena B Badonie, 98 years old (White Cone Chapter)Located: Ariel Begay, Orlando Christopher Paisano, and Burnett Brown have been found and are safe 4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week Eligible individuals are encouraged to file RECA claims at https://reca.justice.gov/Eligible: uranium workers in mining, milling, core drilling, ore transport, or remediation (1942–1990); Downwinders also encouraged to applyDeadline: December 31, 2027. Register online, complete the application, click "Submit My Claim." You may need medical records, proof of presence/employment, and IDFree help: Office of Navajo Uranium Workers, 2644 Yucca St., Shiprock, NM; community reps also availableNN Uranium Workers Program: 505-368-1260 (Mon–Fri, 8–5 MT) | RECA Help Line: 1-800-729-7327 (Mon–Fri, 8–5 ET) 5. Life Lesson Mental health is about learning when to rest, ask for help, and give yourself grace — healing begins when we speak honestly about what we feelTake care of your mind the way you care for your body; your thoughts, emotions, and spirit deserve attention, compassion, and time to heal 6. Accomplishments On May 26, announced $14.70/hour minimum wage for all NN offices; over 1,200 personnel actions processed under new salary schedules from the REDW compensation studyOn May 27, toured the nearly completed $37M Capital Vue Apartments in Window Rock — 60 units (phase one), 10 units (phase two), funded by NHA Indian Housing Block Grant; completion by July 2026On May 27, visited the $3.6M Indian Wells C-store site funded by the Permanent Trust Fund; Red Mesa Trading facility will include C-store, gas station, deli, and post office along Hwy 77, creating 10–15 jobsOn May 22, NDCFS joined Little Singer Community School in Birdsprings for a sixth-grade promotion with a "Healing through Culture" moccasin making project led by Albert Chase 7. Major Projects Led Navajo language read-aloud events at Naschitti and Nizhoni Elementary with Save the Children, reading "Jóhonaa'éí: Bringer of Dawn" by Veronica TsinajinnieNDOT and NN Washington Office completed two days of Congressional meetings on tribal transportation, including the BUILD America 250 Act with tribal bridge funding and streamlined exclusionsAZ Long Term Care System completed 56 home visits; Developmental Disabilities Program completed 13 visits for members in the State DDD provider transitionFleet Management registered 47 new vehicles for Natural Resources divisions including Facility Maintenance and Fish and Wildlife 8. Meet and Greets On Memorial Day, attended the White Cone Veterans Organization event honoring fallen warriors with flag ceremonies by WCVO and Tewa Veterans 9. Upcoming Events May 29–31: Home of the Navajo PRCA Rodeo at Dean C. Jackson Memorial Arena, Window Rock — competitions, youth events, carnival; selected as a 2026 Cheyenne Frontier Days qualifier 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  6. May 21

    May 21, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, May 21, 2026 1. Introduction 2. Navajo Nation Emergency Medical Services Week On Monday, May 18, President Nygren signed a proclamation recognizing May 18–23 as Navajo Nation Medical Emergency WeekThis year's theme, "Improving Outcomes Together," highlights pre-hospital care, medical innovations, and partnerships across public safety and healthcareEMS teams provide 24/7 life-saving care, significantly improving survival and recovery rates for those overcome by sudden illnessPresident Nygren thanked emergency staff and their families for their commitment to a safer Navajo Nation 3. Local Announcements Primary Election Update: On April 2, President Nygren signed Resolution CMA-21-26 moving the Navajo Nation Primary Election to July 21, 2026, aligning the election calendar with state and federal elections while improving voter participation. Positions including President and Council Delegates will be on the ballotLocated: Adyn Diney Lee Tsipai has been found and is safe 4. Accomplishments $4.9 million invested in transitional housing to complement the Yideeską́ądi Hózhǫ́ǫ́jí Center. The Navajo Department of Health and Division of Natural Resources purchased a two-story building on a nearly 14,000 sq ft lot with 24 residential units (20 studio, 4 one-bedroom). Since opening in September 2025, the Center has graduated over 200 individuals and remains one of the few treatment centers allowing families to stay together during recoveryResearch shows individuals in transitional recovery housing are up to 24 times more likely to avoid illicit substances. A HUD study found 73% achieve permanent stable housing, with supported housing resulting in an 80% decrease in jail daysNavajo Nation tax revenues surpass $107.9 million in FY2026. The Office of the Navajo Tax Commission collected approximately $7.6 million this past week ($4.7M via ACH/wire, $2.8M in checks). The Office continues working with Council Delegates to sponsor three Tax Commissioner appointmentsNavajo Grandma and Grandpa Month celebrated with Song and Dance events and a proclamation signing in Twin Lakes, NM, honoring Diné elders. Events held at Twin Lakes, Blue Gap, and Sanostee Senior Centers and the NTU Wellness Center 5. Major Projects Light Up Navajo: On Tuesday the team traveled to Klagetoh to thank the Delta Montrose Electric Association (Colorado), a crew of seven linemen helping connect more families to electricity. Over 13,000 Navajo families still lack basic electricity—roughly 75% of all unelectrified U.S. households. One home being energized belongs to a disabled OIF/OEF veteran with four children who applied in 2022Surplus Sand and Gravel Permit signed May 12 between the Navajo Nation and NECA for the N5001 road project. NECA may remove up to 30,000 cubic yards from the Toadlena/Two Grey Hills area within 90 days, reducing construction time and costsOn Wednesday, May 20, a luncheon with the American Indian Chamber of Commerce showcased how to do business with the Navajo Nation. Hosted with the Division of Economic Development, presentations covered business regulations, site leasing, corporation code processes, and economic development resources 6. Meet and Greets Celebrated with graduates at San Juan College, Navajo Technical University, and NMSU–Grants. Congratulations to all graduates—may you be blessed as you continue to higher education or enter the workforce 7. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  7. May 14

    May 14, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, May 14, 2026 1. Introduction 2. Mother's Day We honor the strength, love, and sacrifice of our mothers, grandmothers, and all women who nurture families across the Navajo Nation.Our mothers carry our teachings, language, and traditions. We also remember those no longer with us, whose love lives on in our hearts. 3. Local Announcements Happy birthday to Jean Redhorse (May 27, 1942) and Stella Pete (May 12, 1947)Henry Clark from Teec Nos Pos wishes mothers a belated Happy Mother's DayNo new missing persons reported this weekLocated: Adyn Diney Lee Tsipai, Sequoia Cleveland, and Natasha June Wilson have been found and are safe 4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week The Navajo Election Administration encourages eligible voters to register at their local chapter house or nearest election office. Bring your original CIB, valid ID, and Social Security card.Contact: 1-800-775-8683 | Suite 212, Quality Inn Office Complex, Window Rock, AZ 86515 5. Life Lesson Progress does not always happen overnight. Like planting corn, we prepare the ground, care for it daily, and trust the process.Our words and actions set an example for the next generation. Move forward with faith, discipline, and compassion. 6. Accomplishments Signed CAP-23-26 to fully fund the Legislative Branch with $3.3 million, ending eight months of budget disputes. OPVP calls on Council to support supplemental appropriations for the Executive Branch, currently at zero operational dollars and needing approximately $750,000.Approved $818,270 contract with Roots Counseling and Consulting LLC (Dr. Nathan Velez) to reopen behavioral health services at the Navajo Regional Behavioral Health Center in Shiprock, covering program design and residential treatment services.Signed $120 million legislation for transportation infrastructure across 59 communities. Over $400 million invested in Navajo roads by end of 2026 — eight times the previous average. NDOT crews repaired over 6,000 potholes and expanded maintained roads from 15 to 30 miles across 110 chapters.Broke ground for the new To'hajilee community school on 42 acres near the Canoncito Band of Navajos Health Center. $90.4 million awarded; Bradbury Stamm Construction leads design. 7. Major Projects Vetoed legislation that would shift OMB authority to Council, conflicting with the 1989 Title II Amendments establishing three separate and equal branches. Major structural changes should be decided by the Navajo people.Met with BLM alongside Delegate Danny Simpson regarding the Chaco Canyon 10-mile buffer zone, which cut off oil and gas subsidies for Navajo families without consultation. BLM is reviewing three alternatives: no action, a five-mile buffer, or removal. 8. Meet and Greets Attended the 31st Annual Indigenous Celebration at NAU, honoring graduates including many Navajo Nation students.Chambers liquor license: opposition hearing set for June 4; document deadline May 21. The Attorney General's Office will present the Nation's position opposing the Series 9 license at Chieftain Mobil near Indian Wells.RECA seminar held May 8 in Chinle at NTU, covering reforms and application guidance. Downwinder compensation increased from $50,000 to $100,000. Residents warned about scams — no fee to apply through DOJ; legal fees capped at 2%. 9. Upcoming Events Elder Fest events for Older Americans Month:Wednesday, May 20: Blue Gap Senior Center at 10:00 a.m.Thursday, May 21: Crownpoint, NM (NTU Wellness Center) at 8:00 a.m.Western Agency: date and location forthcoming 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min

  8. May 7

    May 7, 2026

    Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren's Weekly Radio Address (in Diné Bizaad) Thursday, May 7, 2026 1. Introduction 2. National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Monday marked the National Day of Awareness for MMIP. On the Navajo Nation, 241 missing persons cases have been identified.We remember Ashlynn Mike, Ella Mae Begay, Maleeka "Mullie" Boone, Zachariah Shorty, and every family still searching.OPVP established a Missing and Murdered Diné Relatives liaison, is building a data system with NTU, and committed $5M to search efforts and public safety. 3. Local Announcements Missing person: Sequoia Cleveland, 17, last seen Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Gallup, NM. Contact 505-786-2050 with any information.Located: Natasha June Wilson has been found and is safe. 4. Frequently Asked Question of the Week Q: When do Navajo Nation Scholarship & Financial Assistance applications open?2025–2026 year: opens March 15, 2025; closes June 25, 2025, 5 pm MDT. Winter/Spring 2026: opens Sept. 25, 2025; closes Nov. 25, 2025, 5 pm MST.Required: online application, transcripts, FAFSA, Financial Need Analysis, admission letter. New applicants need a Certificate of Indian Blood; some also need a degree checklist or class schedule.Submit by mail, hand-delivery, or certified e-transcripts. 5. Life Lesson Education is a path to sovereignty, identity, and balance — rooted in Sa'ah Naagháí Bik'eh Hózhóón.As Chief Manuelito described, education is the ladder — lifting individuals and pushing the Nation toward opportunity and harmony. 6. Accomplishments Low Mountain South Broadband Tower completed April 16, 2026. Began Nov. 2020 (CARES Act), restarted 2022 (NTIA). Investment: $1M+ ($830K tower, $54K power, $153K transport, $390K equipment). Part of $50M initiative reaching 3,400+ homes.Ramah Senior Center legislation signed (CAP-27-26), allocating $7,423,149.02 from the Síhasin Fund. The original $184M package did not include Ramah; this corrects that gap. Appreciation to Delegate Norman Begay.Dept. of Child Care and Development received 23 new vehicles. Recognition to Ms. Deannah Nezwood-Gishey and Shiprock team.Justice Day commemorated, honoring the judicial system established in 1959. Key projects: modular holding facilities (Shiprock, Fort Defiance), Kayenta Judicial Complex, Tsehootsoi Judicial Public Safety Center, Tohatchi Public Safety Complex. 7. Major Projects FY 2027 Budget: calling for collaboration among all three branches. FY 2025 operated under a Continuing Resolution impacting 112 Chapters; FY 2026 required 16 legislative corrections. Legislation No. 0091-2026 proposes reducing the Executive Branch base by $897,597 while increasing Legislative and Judicial.Ramah fiscal authority: letter signed supporting RNCOGC becoming its own fiscal agent for NM capital projects per Senate Bill 579.NTUA began a 115kV transmission line between Bitahochee and Dilkon, AZ — 12.64 miles, May–Dec 2026.Ramah Water Project: $10.1M Síhasin Fund investment (CD-55-22) to replace the drinking water system. Legislative options being explored to extend encumbrance deadline. 8. Meet and Greets President Nygren ran the full Shiprock Marathon; First Lady Jasmine Blackwater Nygren completed the half marathon — together promoting healthy living across the Nation. 9. Upcoming Events Older Americans Month Elder Fest events:May 7 — Sanostee Senior Center, 9:30 a.m.May 14 — Bahastl'ah (Twin Lakes) Senior Center, 9:00 a.m.May 20 — Blue Gap Senior Center, 10:00 a.m.May 21 — Crownpoint, NM (NTU Wellness Center), 8:00 a.m.Western Agency — date and location forthcoming 10. Closing: Thank you and tune in next week! ### This audio program and description are produced by the Navajo Nation Office of the President, which is responsible for its content. OPVP Media: https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/administration/#media Content Coordination: Kristin Carl and OPVP Media Team Audio Editor: Byron C. Shorty © 2026 OPVP

    20 min
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Weekly Updates in Navajo to the Navajo People

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