56th annual Ééhániih Day celebrates Navajo heritage, ancestral trails

By Donovan Quintero
Special to the Times

NAATSIS’ÁÁN, Ariz. — Hank Stevens and his small crew were busy preparing the ground for this weekend’s 56th Annual Ééhániih Day.

Stevens, who’s been organizing the event for several years said the annual get-together commemorates Navajo ancestors and some of the trails they used to traverse during migration times.

“We commemorate those trails, and also acknowledge our ancestors at the same time,” Stevens said on Tuesday.

The Ééhániih Day celebration will commence at 4 p.m. with the arrival of trail riders, bike riders, and walkers, followed by a posting of colors by military veterans. A traditional song will then be performed by Gilbert Greymountain. The horse riders, who Stevens said began their ride 206 miles away from Chambers, Arizona, will do a grand entry. Attendees will enjoy dinner and entertainment from 5-7 p.m., featuring a menu of mutton dumpling stew, fry bread, watermelon, and drinks. From 7-9 p.m., a free music and talent show, featuring performances by Travis Gray, Russell Smallcanyon, and David Delmar, along with a presentation from Lion Energy by Damien and Kitty, will entertain the public.

On the second day, festivities kick off at 6 a.m. with an invocation led by Hank Stevens, followed by registrations for a bike race and the 5K run and fun walk at 7 a.m. Registrations for the 400-yard horse race, and a one-mile race, as well as the initiation of field games both begin at 8 a.m.

The first horse race, the 400-yard event, starts at 9 a.m. The one-mile race will be held at 2 p.m.

Naa’ahóóhai, honoring Diné ancestors

Ernest Bitsinnie, who was putting on some new paint on the announcer stand said he’s in charge of the horse races.

“They go by heat. So, I’m looking at running about anywhere from ten to fifteen heats,” he said.

Former Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez is scheduled to speak at 11 a.m.

After the annual commemoration concludes at 3 p.m., attendees are invited to watch a volleyball match at 4 p.m. at the Ééhániih Day Grounds on Saturday. A basketball tournament will take place at the Naatsis’áán Community School starting at 4 p.m.
Stevens emphasized the significance of this longstanding event, stating that it serves as a vital commemoration of Navajo ancestors and the historic trails they traversed during migrations.

Ééhániih Day has become a cherished tradition within the Navajo Nation, reflecting the resilience of the Navajo people. This year’s gathering was marked by various activities designed to educate attendees about the ancestral journeys of their forebears while fostering a sense of unity among participants.

Stevens expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to connect the community with its heritage.

“The annual event is not just a celebration; it’s a way for us to remember and honor the trails our ancestors traveled. It’s essential to keep their stories alive and pass them on to future generations,” Stevens said.

Local artisans will also showcase their crafts, offering attendees a chance to purchase handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles while supporting the community’s artists. Food vendors will have their stands set up, said Stevens.

Stevens noted that preserving these stories and traditions is more important than ever in today’s fast-paced world.

“It’s easy to forget our roots in the hustle of modern life, but events like Ééhániih Day remind us of who we are and where we come from,” he said. “By teaching our youth about their heritage, we empower them to carry forward the legacy of our ancestors.”

---