What an amazing election. However, after evaluating the candidates for Navajo Nation President, there is one candidate that stands out— Mr. Joe Shirley, Jr. Mr. Shirley brings proven leadership, stability, and collaborative effort among the Council, Executive Branch, Judicial Branch and local Chapters to accomplish future goals and projects that will greatly benefit our nation. Essentially, he knows and understands that it’s going to take teamwork to help the Navajo Nation progress.
Shirley has a number of accomplishments. He passed the Diné Natural Resources Act of 2005, helped negotiate the San Juan Water Settlement, assisted with passing the Diné Sovereignty in Education Act, and supported the decriminalization of azee (peyote).
His achievements always prioritize the Navajo people. I believe his leadership knows no bounds, as he extends beyond the issues at hand in order to always focus on the long-term well-being and prosperity of our people.
Additionally, Joe Shirley, Jr. has cultivated a team that will only make his presidency more successful. His Vice President, Buu Nygren, is a young professional with an exceptional education and passion for the Navajo Nation, it’s traditions, and people.
As a young professional myself, it is inspiring to witness a transition of leadership from our older generation to the next generation of modern, Navajo leaders. Our parents and grandparents pushed for us to go out and get educated, and this is a direct manifestation of our ancestors’ dreams.
When I listen to Mr. Shirley talk about his experience and the future, he consistently explains that he can only achieve his platform with teamwork. I believe so many council delegates and political figures have endorsed Mr. Shirley due to his collaborative nature and approach. Those who have endorsed him want to be a part of the change and development that has been set in motion. This strong team, composed of endorsers and his charismatic VP, is integral to moving away from the status quo towards progress.
Finally, I know that Joe Shirley, Jr. will fight tenaciously for our nation. When various companies extracted resources from the Navajo Nation, he did not sit idle. Instead, Mr. Shirley filed a lawsuit against them and won $2.1 billion for our people. Additionally, his administration filed a lawsuit for the Historical Mismanagement of Trust Fund Assets that lead to the recovery of $554 million. Not only will Mr. Shirley fight for our resources, but he will protect them at all costs.
In this short piece, I’ve indicated four areas that demonstrate Mr. Joe Shirley, Jr. as the most viable candidate for the Navajo Nation President. These four areas: achievements, collaborative effort, transferring leadership, and a tenacious leader prove that Mr. Shirley is a strong candidate for the Navajo people. I know there are people who will challenge my thinking, but these are my thoughts. You are welcome to share your thoughts in the comment section. I believe that when we listen to each other, we gain a better understanding of all the issues facing our Nation. Ahee,hee shi ke.
Edited by Jordan A. Johnson (Dine).