NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. — Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley stood in unity with indigenous leaders and representatives from around the world at the United Nations ON June 19 to advocate for the inclusion of indigenous peoples in the United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous governing institutions’ participation in global decision-making processes that impact Indigenous communities.
This advocacy aligns with U.N. Resolution 78/189 adopted in 2023, which underscores the necessity of recognizing and integrating Indigenous voices within the U.N. framework.
In 2017, the Navajo Nation Council’s Naabik’íyati’ Committee adopted Resolution NABIJA-03-17, authorizing the three Branch Chiefs of the Navajo Nation to support efforts for Indigenous representatives to participate in U.N. systems and requesting the U.N. to grant special recognition status to the Navajo Nation.
The Navajo Nation’s resolution further states that the U.S. must incorporate the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples into its domestic laws including but not limited to the Indigenous human rights standards of free, prior, and informed consent.
“Historically, the Navajo Nation has contributed to drafting and presenting both U.N. and American declarations," Curley said. "Indigenous governance varies widely, but we all deserve recognition by the U.N. systems. While Indigenous representatives can participate in some U.N. forums, other parts of the U.N. do not recognize Indigenous governments. Specific measures are needed to include Indigenous governments in these discussions.”
Curley also acknowledged and thanked past Navajo Nation leaders and the Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission for their longstanding involvement and advocacy at the U.N., on behalf of the Navajo people.
Resolution 78/189, adopted by the General Assembly, calls for enhanced efforts to ensure Indigenous peoples have direct representation in the General Assembly. It acknowledges the unique perspectives and vital contributions of Indigenous communities in addressing global challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, and human rights.
The June 19 meeting was organized in preparation for the upcoming consultation initiated by the President of the 78th session of the General Assembly, H.E. Dennis Francis. Francis has appointed co-facilitators and advisers to conduct consultations on potential measures to enhance the participation of Indigenous peoples’ representatives and institutions in relevant U.N. meetings.
"Indigenous peoples have been stewards of Mother Earth since time immemorial, possessing invaluable knowledge that is crucial for addressing today's global issues. Our inclusion in the United Nations General Assembly is not just a matter of representation, but a fundamental step towards achieving true global equity and justice,” Curley stated following the session.
Curley highlighted the importance of implementing Resolution 78/189 through concrete measures, such as creating specific seats for Indigenous representatives and establishing a permanent forum for Indigenous issues within the U.N. structure. This initiative aims to ensure that Indigenous voices are not only heard, but also have a tangible impact on international policies and initiatives that ultimately impact local Indigenous communities.
During the June 19 session, Curley's advocacy efforts received widespread support from Indigenous leaders and member states. As the discussions progress, the 25th Navajo Nation Council and the Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission Office will continue to coordinate and advocate alongside other Indigenous representatives.
