Visit was to build bridges

Posted by Navajo Times | Aug 20, 2015 | Guest Essay |

Carlyle Begay.

By Carlyle W. Begay
Special to the Times

With the recent visit by Arizona Congressional and State leaders to the Navajo Nation last Friday, there were many that have criticized the intent and meaning of the visit, understandably. I respect the opposition and protest of those who perceived the visit to be malicious and not in the best interest of our people and the Navajo Nation.

The history between tribes and States over the course of American history is replete with mistakes, tragic actions and lost opportunities. We can’t change our history but we are not condemned to repeat it.

I also respect the leadership of our tribal leaders who had the courage to seek an opportunity to build a new partnership in Arizona, based on common values, hopes and dreams for a better quality of life for our people and for future generations.

Upon my appointment in August of 2013 and re-election to the Senate last year, I set out to establish priorities for our district and committed to our constituents to represent them effectively. I pledged to be the voice to our rural and tribal communities that have gone without for so long. Rather than relegate our district’s interest to partisan ideological driven politics, I have continued to seek opportunities to participate in the legislative process and finally bring about the much-needed investment from our state.

With this said, a big priority has been to continue to build the relationship and bridge between tribes in Arizona and state leaders. Our futures as governmental bodies, whether we realize it or not, are most assuredly intertwined. There are many good reasons to strive for cooperation. Any two or more neighboring governments, as a practical matter, share aspects of their respective economic and social systems and are connected through political and legal relationships.

Sadly, this history of relationship with Arizona state leaders has never been built on a mutual respect of the Navajo Nation’s sovereignty, recognizing our authority, which has been present since time immemorial and which is recognized in the Constitution of the United States, in treaties and in federal laws. Our brightest future though will not be simply based on law, but on the good faith understanding we extend to each other.

I commend Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and other state leaders for wanting to reshape this history and by wanting to work with our Navajo tribal leaders on a government-to-government basis. And for wanting to begin taking into account tribal positions on state issues. Today we often find our governments working separately in parallel of one another rather than working in partnership. We can all do so much more working together.

For those that seek protest and opposition, I always welcome you to the table. Your views and perspectives should be shared and taken into consideration. There will be times we will not always agree, but whether or not we agree, it is important that we can sit down and have a civil dialogue. An ongoing communication will require an effort from all of us. As leaders we are all taxed for time, but we must make this communication a priority. I will continue to press for collaboration and consultation, which will be the cornerstone of a successful partnership for the future.

We all as elected leaders see that the future of Arizona is dependent upon a new relationship, and true commitment as partners. As partners in building a great state with a vibrant economy and healthy communities that are great places to work and raise families.

Lastly, I do want to mention that it truly is an honor to serve our rural and tribal communities in the senate at the Arizona State Legislature. I will continue to strive to serve our rural and tribal members of Legislative District 7, which includes six counties, and eight tribal communities, with selflessness and utmost dedication.

I will continue to look for opportunities where we can work together to improve tribal economies, infrastructure, and education for the benefit of tribes and all Arizonans. I know that if tribes flourish, we all benefit. There are numerous challenges that face our Navajo Nation, from poverty and unemployment, water and infrastructure, to roads and education. By working together we have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the Navajo Nation people, Northern Arizona, and the state of Arizona. We have the opportunity to create a true partnership for progress.Ê

Carlyle W. Begay is the Arizona state senator for District 7s