Mourning a great American hero – Navajo Code Talker John Kinsel Sr.

By JoAnn B. Jayne

Editor’s note: JoAnn B. Jayne is the Navajo Nation chief justice.

The Navajo Nation mourns a great American hero – Navajo Code Talker John Kinsel Sr., who defended our land and our people with the language given to us by the Holy People.

The legendary actions of all our code talkers affect our society to this day. Though he and so many of our code talkers are now gone, their legacy will reverberate far beyond their lifetimes. Because of their heroic deeds, Americans have the right to democracy. We as Navajo people have a right to speak our language and to live by our Diné Fundamental Laws.

On behalf of the Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation, we share in mourning with all his family, friends and our entire Navajo Nation. Let us honor and commemorate Mr. Kinsel’s extraordinary life by speaking our sacred language and ensure that it will continue to be taught and learned by our people.