Author: Donovan Quintero

The Trump Administration’s decision to revoke the 20-year mineral withdrawal around Chaco Culture National Historical Park has exposed sharp divisions among those closest to the land, pitting a Navajo allottee and chapter president who welcomed the move against a former Council delegate who has spent decades fighting to protect eastern Navajo communities from oil and gas development.

The Navajo Nation Washington Office works both sides of the political aisle to protect the Nation and its citizens from federal decisions that could threaten health care, food assistance, water, land and other core interests, Executive Director Vince Redhouse said.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs’ decision to halt grazing permit processing on the Navajo Nation has left probate recipients and longtime permit holders in limbo. Ranching families and Navajo leaders say the pause came with little warning after years of work and expense to secure grazing rights.

When a person walked toward To’Hajiilee Community School carrying a rifle, administrator Willinda Castillo locked down the campus, called 911 and waited for help that did not come quickly.

The Animas River does not look still or small.