Ts’ahbiikin Chapter sponsors resolution that urges tribal, federal officials to waive tribal ID and birth certificate fees
WINDOW ROCK
Ts’ahbiikin Chapter resolution TBK 2025-041-006, which supports and urges the Navajo Nation Council, the Office of the President and Vice President, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs to waive all fees associated with obtaining a tribal identification card and extend the expiration date until the holder’s 65th birthday, is among the issues to be discussed on Feb. 3.
The resolution stems from President Donald Trump’s Jan. 20 executive order signings that include deporting illegal immigrants.
Trump has signed an executive order to enforce immigration laws more strictly. The order reverses previous administration policies and directs federal agencies to take action against illegal immigration.
According to the executive order, unauthorized immigrants pose security risks and have placed a financial burden on taxpayers. The order instructs the Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies to prioritize the removal of individuals who are in the country unlawfully, particularly those with criminal records.
The administration will create new Homeland Security Task Forces in every state to combat organized crime, human trafficking, and illegal border crossings. The order also calls for identifying unregistered immigrants and enforcing penalties against those who violate immigration laws.
Federal authorities have also been directed to improve detention facilities and expand resources for holding individuals awaiting deportation. In addition, the order also emphasizes stronger cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
The president says the new policy is necessary to protect national security, maintain public safety, and uphold the rule of law.
The order spurred unsubstantiated reports of federal officers harassing or detaining Navajo citizens.
Other Navajo chapters have posted public service announcements via their social media pages informing their constituents on how to obtain their birth certificates in Navajo County.
The Ts’ahbiikin Chapter will hold its monthly meeting on Monday at 10 a.m. The meeting will be open to both in-person and virtual attendees. Members who wish to join remotely can access the meeting through Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/98132965702?pwd=oHT4zJk1SGfhbosT1zOE4a4aXDuN3K.1. They can also dial in at +1 (646) 931-3860 using Meeting ID: 981 3296 5702 and PIN: 560808.
The agenda includes the approval of the January 2025 budget report under chapter resolution TBK 2025-041-001. Other topics include ARPA project updates on local renovations and electrical work. There will also be committee reports from chapter officials, including the president, vice president, secretary-treasurer, and grazing officials.
The chapter is also expected to discuss chapter resolution TBK 2025-041-007, supporting the Arizona House Bill 2336, which would establish a Native American Veteran Special License Plate. Other resolutions include approving monthly cash receipts for January 2025 and budget transfers.
On Feb. 6, Navajo County Public Health Services will assist residents with obtaining Arizona birth certificates. The event will take place at the Navajo County Kayenta Justice Court from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Only money orders will be accepted for the $20 processing fee, and a valid government-issued picture ID is required.
Additionally, St. Mary’s Food Distribution is scheduled for Feb. 24. The chapter has several upcoming meetings, including planning and permittees meetings, along with a Western Agency grazing meeting.
For more information, residents are encouraged to contact the chapter or check their announcements.
Highway 264,
I-40, WB @ Winslow