While the Navajo Nation prepares to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of 1868, the tribe has been working on a ranching agreement since 2009. At that time, it attempted to force more than 20 ranchers off their leases and began a process to redistribute the ranches
On March 19, I received a certified letter from Navajo Nation Department of Agriculture telling me to respond within 10 days of my decision to leave or reapply for the existing lease. After completing the paperwork, I sent it off well within the allotted time. Since then, I have waited for an answer. I sincerely hope this can be resolved in a reasonable time as I have been diligent in my response and feel the tribe owes me the same courtesy.
This whole issue is a cultural journey for me as my family has passed down this way of life through five generations, and hopes to continue in the future. Remembering our suffering ensures that we won’t repeat the mistakes of the past.
Justin D. Yazzie Jr.
Farmington
