fbpx
facebook app symbol  twitter  linkedin  instagram 1
 

Speaker Seth Damon and the 24th Navajo Nation Council provide the following statement to commemorate the Thanksgiving holiday:

Yá’át’ééh Keshmesh Yazhi. Our Indigenous people were here in thriving communities long before this national holiday, and we are still here since time immemorial. We are reminded of our resiliency as the Navajo people as we fight together to defeat this pandemic. It is through our traditional songs, ceremonies, and our prayers that sustains us today.

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

Our compassion and faith as Diné people are the true strength and beauty of the Navajo Nation. Let us come together safely as family and friends during Thanksgiving to share appreciation for the many blessings given to us. Use this time to enjoy some turkey and mutton, cheer on your football team, and gather in fellowship with your relatives.

We send protection prayers to all our warriors around the world. It is through the bravery of our Navajo Code Talkers and the distinguished service of our men and women in uniform serving overseas today that allows us to have our freedoms. Let it be remembered for generations how much our Sovereign Nation has contributed to the diverse history of the United States of America. 

We now give thanks to the Holy People for safeguarding our connection to our sacred land, air, water, and all living beings on Níhímá Nahasdzáán, our Mother Earth. During times of great challenge or times of calm, there are reasons for each of us to be grateful this year.

May the Creator provide us guidance and keep us safe as one Navajo family. Ahéhee'

More Stories Like This

Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. Briefs
US Presidents in Their Own Words Concerning American Indians
Native News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Seattle Seahawks Tackle Preservation Projects at Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center for Annual Day of Service
Native News Weekly (June 15, 2025): D.C. Briefs

Help us tell the stories that could save Native languages and food traditions

At a critical moment for Indian Country, Native News Online is embarking on our most ambitious reporting project yet: "Cultivating Culture," a three-year investigation into two forces shaping Native community survival—food sovereignty and language revitalization.

The devastating impact of COVID-19 accelerated the loss of Native elders and with them, irreplaceable cultural knowledge. Yet across tribal communities, innovative leaders are fighting back, reclaiming traditional food systems and breathing new life into Native languages. These aren't just cultural preservation efforts—they're powerful pathways to community health, healing, and resilience.

Our dedicated reporting team will spend three years documenting these stories through on-the-ground reporting in 18 tribal communities, producing over 200 in-depth stories, 18 podcast episodes, and multimedia content that amplifies Indigenous voices. We'll show policymakers, funders, and allies how cultural restoration directly impacts physical and mental wellness while celebrating successful models of sovereignty and self-determination.

This isn't corporate media parachuting into Indian Country for a quick story. This is sustained, relationship-based journalism by Native reporters who understand these communities. It's "Warrior Journalism"—fearless reporting that serves the 5.5 million readers who depend on us for news that mainstream media often ignores.

We need your help right now. While we've secured partial funding, we're still $450,000 short of our three-year budget. Our immediate goal is $25,000 this month to keep this critical work moving forward—funding reporter salaries, travel to remote communities, photography, and the deep reporting these stories deserve.

Every dollar directly supports Indigenous journalists telling Indigenous stories. Whether it's $5 or $50, your contribution ensures these vital narratives of resilience, innovation, and hope don't disappear into silence.

Levi headshotThe stakes couldn't be higher. Native languages are being lost at an alarming rate. Food insecurity plagues many tribal communities. But solutions are emerging, and these stories need to be told.

Support independent Native journalism. Fund the stories that matter.

Levi Rickert (Potawatomi), Editor & Publisher

 
 
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].