Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

THE NAVAJO NATION
Window Rock, AZ
January 16, 2001

Hon. JOHN KYL
Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC.

DEAR SENATOR KYL: On behalf of the Navajo Nation, I convey our support for Ms. Gale Norton, nominee for Secretary of the Department of the Interior. The Navajo Nation, in its government-to-government relationships, works with the Department of the Interior on myriad issues affecting the Nation. Although there are times when we disagree with one another we continue to work together for the benefit of the Navajo People. We wish to continue the working relationship with the new administration and we look forward to working with Ms. Norton.

The Navajo Nation's past experience with Gale Norton involved issues with the Southern Ute Tribe during her term as Attorney General for the State of Colorado. During that time Ms. Norton approached the tribes and asked how she could help. She provided testimony to the House (Natural Resources) Committee on the Animas-LaPlata project which benefitted the tribes. Her willingness to support the tribes demonstrates her knowledge of Indian nations and their position within the federal system.

The Navajo Nation does have its concerns with regard to Indian country policies and initiatives. We advise the new administration to follow the basic goals and principles of affirmation of the commitment to tribal sovereignty and self-determination, protecting and sustaining treaty rights and the federal trust responsibilities, and supporting initiatives which promote sustainable economic development in Indian country.

The Navajo Nation supports the nomination of Gale Norton for Secretary of the Interior and we trust she will continue to work with Indian country as she has done in the past. We look forward to working with her in advancing Indian country policies and Indian initiative for the Bush/Cheney Administration.

Sincerely,

Kelsey A. Begaye,
President.