WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council marked the start of the 2024 Fall Session on Oct. 21 with two significant awareness walks, emphasizing its commitment to addressing urgent issues affecting the Navajo community—domestic violence and disability employment. These back-to-back events not only highlighted the Council’s dedication to advocacy but also underscored its efforts to foster safety, dignity, and inclusivity across the Navajo Nation.
The Domestic Violence Awareness Walk, led by Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty, Chair of the Missing and Murdered Diné Relative Task Force, marked its ninth annual event, aiming to amplify awareness of domestic violence across the Nation. Crotty was joined by Navajo Nation Vice President Richelle Montoya, Director of the Navajo Nation Division for Children and Family Services Thomas Cody, and other MMDR task force members. The march started at the Navajo Nation Museum and ended at the Navajo Nation Council’s Chambers, symbolizing a united front against domestic violence.
“Domestic violence continues to affect our communities, our families, and our children at alarming rates,” Crotty said.“This walk is not just symbolic; it’s a promise to the people we serve—a promise to fight for their safety, dignity, and well-being. We walk not only to raise awareness but to demand action, support, and change.”
Simultaneously, the 25th Navajo Nation Council hosted an Awareness Walk for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of inclusive employment and access to services for individuals with disabilities. Navajo Nation Speaker
Crystalyne Curley and Council Delegate Dr. Andy Nez joined representatives from the Native
American Disability Law Center, the Navajo Nation Advisory Council on Disability, and the Navajo Nation Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services.
Curley emphasized the importance of seeing beyond disabilities and ensuring dignity and equal opportunity for all individuals.
“We must look beyond the disability and see the person,” she said. “Everyone deserves dignity and equal opportunity.”
Nez highlighted the need for accessible services that address the diverse needs of Diné citizens, noting that inclusive support strengthens the entire community.
The awareness events are part of the Council’s broader efforts to combat domestic violence and promote inclusivity for people with disabilities. The Navajo Nation leadership reaffirmed its commitment to improving safety, implementing prevention measures, and advancing the Americans with Disabilities Act across the reservation. Additional NDEAM events, including walks in Tuba City, Ariz., Crownpoint, and Shiprock, Ariz. will culminate in a disability conference on Oct. 30, covering topics such as legal rights and employment resources.
Staff Reports
