fbpx
 

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Navajo Nation Council approved legislation to reopen eight tribal parks on the Navajo Nation. The tribal parks have been closed for over a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The legislation passed unanimously following the Navajo Nation’s change from “Orange” to “Yellow” safety status under Covid-19 safety protocols detailed by Public Health Order No. 2021-005

Want more Native News? Get the free daily newsletter today.

The Office of the President and Vice President (OPVP) must still approve the legislation. 

Upon approval, the following Navajo tribal parks, entities, and establishments will open: 

  • Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park
  • Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
  • Monument Valley Welcome Center
  • Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park
  • Four Corners Monument and Tséyi’ Diné Heritage Area
  • Navajo Nation Museum 
  • Navajo Nation Veterans Memorial Park 
  • Navajo Nation Zoo 
During the session, Linda Jackson, a Navajo Guided Tours representative in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park said her employees have been severely impacted by the pandemic. 
 
“[Employees] have been calling in everyday to see if they can work since the beginning of the pandemic,” said Jackson. 

Before reopening, each park will have to submit an outlined safety measure plan to the Navajo Nation Health Commands Operation Center and Navajo Operational Safety and Health Administration, before being authorized to safely open.

Despite hesitation from some Council members about a potential second wave of Covid-19 and differing mask mandates for surrounding states near the Navajo Nation, the amendment passed with a vote of 21 in favor and zero opposed. 

More Stories Like This

Judge Rules Two Freedmen Eligible for Tribal Citizenship of Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Tribe Appeals
National Test of Emergency Alert System Set for Wednesday Afternoon
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act Reintroduced in Congress
Man Charged in Rape of 11-year-old Girl in Bemidji
Eliot Neal Named New Missing or Murdered Indigenous Person Assistant United States Attorney for the Southwest Regions

Stand with us in championing Indigenous journalism that makes a difference. Your support matters.

Support our Indigenous-led newsroom as we shed light on critical issues, such as the painful history of Indian Boarding Schools. To date, we've published nearly 200 stories dedicated to this important topic, providing insights and awareness to a global audience. Our news is freely accessible to all, but its production demands resources. That's why we're reaching out to you this month for your generous contribution.

For those who commit to a recurring donation of $12 per month or more, or make a one-time donation of $150 or greater, we're excited to offer you a copy of our upcoming Indian Boarding School publication. Additionally, you will be added to our Founder's Circle. Together, we can ensure that these vital stories continue to be told, shared, and remembered.

About The Author
Native News Online Staff
Author: Native News Online StaffEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at [email protected].