Veteran's Day

November 11 is Veteran’s Day in the United States.  It is a day to remember the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the American way of life.  Through the years these individuals have put their safety and well-being in jeopardy in the name of freedom, liberty, and justice.  We owe all former and current members of our armed services a great deal of gratitude.

Whether or not you agree with the involvement of our military around the world, the support of our troops is necessary.  It is not the soldier who decides where to go, they take orders.  They go where they are needed and where they are asked to go.  It is a difficult life.  In addition to risking their life, they are often separated from their families for months on end.  They give up the comforts of Saturday afternoon football games, microwave popcorn, and a nice fireplace in exchange for tents in the middle of the desert.

It is fitting we dedicate a day during the year to remember those brave men and women who truly understand what it means to be called to duty.

What are your thoughts on Veteran’s Day?  What ways can you personally honor our veterans and current military members?  Find a Veteran sometime this week and tell them “Thank You”. 

Navajo Elections

In addition to the state and local elections on Tuesday the Navajo Nation was heading to the polls to elect their tribal representatives.  As the largest federally recognized tribe in the United States, the Navajo maintain their own government which includes council representative, school  board members, and a president.  It is the presidential position which has been in the news over the past couple of weeks.

Last week, the high court of the Navajo Nation ordered the ballots for president be reprinted and the candidate Chris Deschene be removed.  This has been on ongoing legal battle to determine Navajo presidential eligibility.  According to the Navajo Constitution, those seeking the office of president must be fluent in their native language.  While some have testified to Deschene’s ability to understand the language, he is not fluent. 

 

To the traditional Navajo, the ability of the president to fluently speak their native language is critical to continuing on the rich and deep culture of the Navajo Nation.  To others, the requirement is outdates and needs to be reconsidered given the lack of emphasis on speaking Navajo in the education system for those who are now in their 30s and 40s.  Below is an article explaining the issue

in greater detail…

https://newsela.com/articles/navajo-language/id/5807/

Do you agree or disagree with the requirement to be fluent in Navajo in order to be president?  Why?  What role does language play in our culture and is that role important?