The Navajo Independent

07/29/2025

Rezball Canceled Until $24.2 Million from ZenniHome Returned, Say Navajo Nation Council

By Shawn Gamble
The Navajo Independent
July 29, 2025

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Navajo Nation has officially canceled the upcoming rezball season in protest over the disappearance of $24.2 million from a failed housing project with ZenniHome, a modular housing company. The money, originally intended to bring sustainable homes to families in need, has yet to result in a single completed unit. Tribal officials said the drastic action is meant to bring national attention to the unresolved financial scandal. “Rezball is sacred to us, but so is our future,” said Council Delegate Jerry Greg. “Until every dollar is returned, we will not pretend everything is okay. The local schools will send out announcements for cancelling this year’s basketball season and perhaps football until we get answers from Buu.”

The ZenniHome partnership began in 2024 with high hopes and press coverage, but by mid-2025, concerns grew over how quickly funds were transferred and how little oversight was exercised. An audit revealed irregularities and a lack of documented progress on housing construction. “Where are the homes? Where is the transparency?” asked Eddie Begay, a former tribal housing official. “My second and third wives need homes. What do the tribe expect me to do, work, and build homes with my own money? All cheap, I’m not McDonald Trump.” ZenniHome issued a brief statement denying wrongdoing and claiming it is cooperating with ongoing investigations, but trust has eroded within the Nation.

The cancellation has struck an emotional chord with youth and families who rely on Rezball not just for recreation, but for hope, scholarships, and pride. “It’s heartbreaking, I was told to go home and reheat my grandma’s three-day old stew instead of practicing,” said 16-year-old Kayenta guard Marissa Cheapskate. “We’ve worked so hard, and now it's gone — but I support the decision. I believe in our leaders.” Coaches and chapter leaders echoed the sentiment, with some organizing teach-ins on financial sovereignty and tribal governance in place of practices.

While many are angry and frustrated, tribal leaders insist the cancellation is not permanent — but a symbolic pause demanding justice. “This is not about punishing our youth. This is about showing the world that we will not be silent when our people are exploited,” Delegate Jerry added. Investigations into the ZenniHome deal are ongoing, with subpoenas already issued. Until then, the courts are quiet — and the message is loud.

07/26/2025

Good morning to all my relatives on Frybread Island.

07/25/2025

07/22/2025

Sweet farewell, Ozzy Osbourne. 🌹 The Prince of Darkness has left us. You’ve influenced many on Navajo Nation with your music. Thank you.

07/22/2025

Navajo Group Push to End Alcohol Ban on Reservation

WINDOW ROCK, AZ — A growing number of Navajo citizens are calling for an end to the longstanding alcohol ban on the Navajo Nation, arguing that prohibition has failed to stop addiction and has instead led to criminalization and unsafe drinking conditions. The group, Diné Party Patrol (D.P.P.), includes recovering alcoholics, health advocates, and younger activists who say the current law pushes alcohol use into dangerous, unregulated spaces and prevents people from seeking help.

“We are not promoting drinking—we are demanding a right to control our own health,” said Leo Tsosie, a recovering alcoholic helping lead the movement. The Navajo Nation has prohibited alcohol since the 1980s, yet surrounding border towns profit heavily from Navajo customers, and alcohol-related harm remains high on the reservation. Reform advocates say it’s time for the tribe to create its own regulated system, including addiction treatment and education, rather than rely on outdated punishment models.

Still, many tribal leaders and elders oppose lifting the ban, citing fears of increased violence, addiction, and the deep historical trauma tied to alcohol in Native communities. “We’ve seen what it does to our families,” said Councilman Thomas Tom. “Lifting the ban could do more harm than good. People could end up kissing their cousins or their aunties.” Others argue that the Nation needs more healing and infrastructure before even considering a shift in policy.

Despite opposition, D.P.P. plans to push for a referendum in 2026 that would allow Navajo citizens to vote directly on the issue. “The silence hasn’t worked,” said mental health advocate Ashtash Benally. “We need to talk about it, and we need solutions led by our own people—not by the Magic 8 Ball Buu uses in his office.”

07/22/2025

CHINLE, Ariz. - This morning, at approximately 11:30 a.m., a Navajo Police Department Chinle officer was patrolling the Tseyi Shopping Center when the officer observed a male subject walking quickly from a Ace Hardware store and enter a nearby Bashas store.

A short time later, the male subject walked out of the store and a Bashas Security guard was walking out after him, telling him to stop.

When the officer approached the male subject, he began taking out Spam cans from the sleeves of his jacket.

The 42-year-old Navajo male was arrested for Shoplifting and booked into the Navajo Department of Corrections Chinle facility.

07/22/2025

𝗜𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗷𝗼 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.

We – as President and Vice President – come together and recommit ourselves to our beloved Navajo Nation and people. We thank you for your continued support and prayers as we enter the last 18 months of our Administration. - Love Buu

07/16/2025

Northern Navajo Nation Fair Faces Uncertainty Amid Financial Issues; Kayenta Eyed as Possible New Home

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – July 16, 2025 – The Northern Navajo Nation Fair, one of the most celebrated cultural events in the region, is at risk of cancellation due to growing financial challenges from failed investments in 10,000 dollars’ worth of Vinyl Face Macaron Monsters Toffee dolls that failed to sell. Fair organizers say the budget shortfall threatens essential operations such as logistics, performer fees, and youth programming, placing the future of the fair in jeopardy.

As a potential solution, officials are exploring the possibility of relocating the fair to Kayenta, Arizona—a town that has seen recent economic investment, including an $8.9 million grant to expand Northland Pioneer College, the re-opening of the Golden Sands Restaurant and stimulate local development. Supporters of the move say Kayenta could offer cost-effective infrastructure and renewed energy for the event, while drawing in new visitors and vendors from western Navajo communities. However, others argue that leaving Shiprock would compromise the fair’s cultural and historical significance.

Relocation would also present logistical hurdles. Kayenta, while growing, may not yet have the infrastructure to support the scale of the fair, which typically draws thousands from across the Navajo Nation and beyond. Questions remain about accommodations, transportation, and the fairgrounds’ readiness. Tribal leaders have indicated that these issues, along with cultural concerns, will be addressed in upcoming public meetings and committee sessions.

For now, the fate of the Northern Navajo Nation Fair hangs in the balance. Organizers, lawmakers, and community members are working urgently to find a solution that preserves both the spirit and sustainability of the event. Whether that means reimagining the fair in Kayenta or finding a way to keep it in Shiprock with a reduced budget remains to be seen.

07/15/2025

Navajo Nation Council Implements Clear Bag Policy for Future Meetings

Window Rock, Arizona — In a move aimed at enhancing safety and transparency, the Navajo Nation Council has officially implemented a new policy requiring all council members, staff, and visitors to use clear bags or backpacks when attending future meetings at the Navajo Nation Council Chambers.

The policy, announced earlier this week by Security Shawn Curley, will take effect immediately. It mirrors security measures adopted by government bodies and school districts across the country.

“The safety of our council delegates, staff, and the public is a top priority,” said Speaker Curley in a press release. “This clear bag policy is a proactive step to ensure a secure environment while maintaining public access to our legislative proceedings.”

Under the new guidelines, only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags will be permitted inside the chamber. Small clutch bags or wallets will still be allowed but must be inspected upon entry. Exceptions may be granted for medical or childcare needs, provided proper notification is given in advance.

Several council members voiced support for the policy, citing the need for improved security protocols amid increasing public attendance and the presence of sensitive legislative materials.

Delegate Carl Lee said, “This change is about preparation and prevention. It helps us create a space that’s both accessible and secure for everyone involved. I don’t want anyone to bring a can of bear spray to a meeting.”

Some delegates expressed concerns about personal privacy and the suddenness of the announcement but acknowledged the council’s obligation to adapt to growing public engagement.

The Office of the Speaker confirmed that signage and staff will be available at future meetings to guide attendees through the new procedures. The policy applies to all meetings held within the Council Chambers and may be expanded to other government buildings in the future.

The Navajo Nation becomes one of the first tribal governments to adopt a clear bag policy at a legislative level, signaling a shift toward more standardized security practices in tribal governance.

07/15/2025

Navajo Nation Proposes Standardized Child Support Rate of $180 Per Month instead of it being based on Parental Income

Window Rock, AZ — The Navajo Nation is considering a major reform to its child support guidelines, proposing a standardized monthly payment of $180 per child based on the of both parents living situation. The proposed change aims to simplify the current child support system and address longstanding concerns about fairness, consistency, and affordability across the Nation.

Currently, child support payments on the Navajo Nation are calculated using a complex formula that often varies depending on individual circumstances, including each parent's income, number of children, and custody arrangements. However, community members and legal advocates have voiced concerns that the current process is burdensome and sometimes results in uneven outcomes.

"We heard from many parents that the system is too confusing, and the results often feel arbitrary," said Jennifer Lee-Yazzie, Administrator of the Navajo Nation Division of Social Services. "This proposed $180 standard is about bringing equity and predictability for families across the Nation."

Under the proposed plan, if the combined gross monthly income of both parents meets or exceeds a baseline threshold—expected to be set around $1,500—the standard child support obligation would be $180 per month per child. The policy also includes provisions for income-based adjustments in cases of financial hardship, transportation, unemployment, or disability.

The legislation is currently under review by the Navajo Nation Council’s Health, Education, and Human Services Committee, which is expected to hold public hearings over the coming weeks. Tribal leaders say community feedback will be essential in shaping the final version of the policy.

"This change is not just about numbers," said Delegate Edward Benally, a sponsor of the legislation. "It's about giving our children a reliable foundation, while making sure our families are not trapped in an inflexible or outdated system. We cannot rely on the parent working outside the Navajo Nation. Usually, those funds are spent on clubs, new trucks and junk food. Navajo parents still have a lot to learn on how to spend their money wisely. "

The proposed reform has drawn mixed reactions from community members. Some praise the simplicity and fairness of the flat rate, while others worry it may not reflect the true cost of raising a child, especially in areas with high living expenses.

"It’s a start, but $180 might not go far in today’s world, but it goes along ways on the Navajo reservation," said Carla Smith-Nez, a mother of three from Shiprock. "Still, at least it would bring some consistency and peace of mind. My mother raised three kids on $40 dollars per month.”

If approved, the new child support guidelines could take effect as early as January 2026. Tribal agencies are preparing outreach and education campaigns to ensure that families understand how the new system will work.