Winter Session highlights urgent health issues with daily themes

Posted by Donna Wickerd | Jan 22, 2024 | News |

WINDOW ROCK

Diné are urged to take action and empower themselves and their communities during the Navajo Nation Council’s Winter Session, spotlighting crucial health issues with dedicated daily themes.

Each day offers a different color or scarf to highlight opportunities for education, prevention, and solidarity. Speaker Crystalyne Curley explained that the daily themes go beyond mere awareness campaigns. They serve as a call to action, a chance for citizens to contribute to a healthier, safer future for themselves and their communities.

By embracing prevention, advocating for equal access, and taking small but impactful steps, the Navajo Nation can close the gaps in health equity and build a brighter tomorrow.

More than awareness: a call to action 

Invoking a tradition rooted in unity and strength, Curley has woven colored scarves into the fabric of Navajo governance during her term. These simple garments transcend fashion, embodying a shared vision of women protecting their children and shaping the Nation’s future.

The scarves symbolize love, hope, and shared burdens, reflecting resilience and defiance. Drawing on the Diné ancestors’ wisdom of using scarves for trade, the scarves are used to raise awareness and champion critical causes during the Winter Session. Each color becomes a rallying cry, weaving a vibrant tapestry of solidarity.

Jan. 22 – Human Trafficking Awareness 

The Winter Session started Monday, Jan. 22, with a vibrant blue hue for Human Trafficking Awareness. Wearing blue on #WearBlueDay signifies solidarity with survivors and raises awareness about this horrific crime. Navajo citizens are encouraged to educate themselves about the signs of trafficking, report suspicious activity, and join the fight to break the chains of modern-day slavery.

Jan. 23 – American Heart Month

Tuesday, Jan. 23, dons a fiery red for American Heart Month. As the leading cause of death in the U.S., heart disease demands attention. The Council encourages regular checkups and screenings to detect early signs and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle with nutritious food, regular exercise, and stress management. These small steps can pave the way for a healthier future.

Jan. 24 – Cervical Health Awareness Month 

On Wednesday, Jan. 24, the spotlight shifts to the fight against cervical cancer during Cervical Health Awareness Month. The Council urges awareness through wearing a light blue scarf. This devastating disease can be effectively prevented through early detection and vaccination. The Council urges women to schedule regular Pap smears and promotes conversation about HPV vaccination, offering powerful tools to safeguard themselves and future generations.

Jan. 25 – World Cancer Day

Thursday, Jan. 25, marks World Cancer Day with a message of unity and hope. Advances in research and treatment offer unprecedented possibilities despite the millions impacted by cancer. The Council calls for joining the “Close the Care Gap” initiative on Feb. 4, advocating for equal access to cancer care regardless of background. Supporting research and essential organizations allows everyone to share the promise of healing and hope. People can show their support and help raise awareness by wearing a purple scarf.

Jan. 26 – National Glaucoma Awareness Month 

The session concludes on Jan. 26, focusing on National Glaucoma Awareness Month. Often dubbed the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can steal vision before symptoms arise. The Council emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams, especially for those with a family history, and encourages awareness of warning signs. By prioritizing eye health, individuals can secure their precious gift of sight. People can help spread awareness of glaucoma by wearing a green scarf.