Login

President Begay and Vice Pres. Nez mourn loss of Delegate Steven Begay

Print

Staff Reports

WINDOW ROCK — Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye and Vice President Jonathan Nez said the Navajo Nation lost a great leader in the passing of Honorable Delegate Steven Begay (Naschitti, Coyote Canyon, Mexican Springs, Tohatchi, Bahastl’a’a’) on Oct. 4.

On behalf of the great Navajo Nation, President Begaye and Vice President Nez sent their deepest condolences to the family of Delegate Begay.

Originally from Nashchitti, Begay, 43, is Tł’ááshchí’í born for Áshįįhí. His maternal grandfathers are Tódích’íi’nii and his paternal grandfathers are Dólii Dine’é Táchii’nii.

Delegate Begay was a strong advocate who provided traditional guidance and perspective in his decision-making.

“Yesterday, we lost a great leader. Delegate Begay sponsored many important bills that improved the lives of our people,” Begaye said. “We give our condolences to his children, his family and the community that he served. We also send our condolences to the 23rd Navajo Nation Council.”

Delegate Begay co-sponsored the 2017 legislation to purchase the Wolf Springs Ranch in Westcliffe, Colo. The proximity of the Wolf Springs Ranch to Tsisnaasjiní, one of the Navajo’s sacred mountains, was important to Delegate Begay.

“For the Navajo Nation to gain a foothold near our aboriginal homelands located in Colorado was a great victory,” Begaye said. “Delegate Begay’s legacy lies within the work he provided to the Nation. He will be remembered for years to come because of it.”

Vice President Nez joined the Navajo Nation in mourning the loss of the young, vibrant lawmaker.

"We join the Navajo Nation in prayer for the family of Navajo Nation Council Delegate Steven Begay. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family during this time,” Nez said. “Please be considerate of his family during this time of grief and respect their right to privacy. Let us pray to God in unity for strength and courage for his family during this somber time.”

Begaye is calling on the Navajo Nation to hold the family, friends and colleagues of Honorable Delegate Steven Begay in prayer during this time of mourning and grief.

“We will continue to remember Delegate Begay for all the important work he’s done on behalf of the Navajo people and the Navajo Nation,” Begaye said. “The Nation mourns his passing.”

Share/Save/Bookmark