Navajo Nation Washington Office

25th Navajo Nation Council honors Navajo Nation Memorial Day

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council honors Navajo Nation Memorial Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices of Navajo ancestors, veterans, and fallen warriors whose courage, resilience, and service continue to shape the Nation today.

Formerly known as Treaty Day, Navajo Nation Memorial Day commemorates the 158th anniversary of the Treaty of 1868, signed on June 1, 1868, by Navajo leaders and the United States government, ending the Diné people's exile and incarceration at Fort Sumner following the Long Walk.

The Treaty secured our people's return to their ancestral homeland and established the foundation for the Navajo Nation’s enduring sovereignty and self-governance. The day also serves as a solemn remembrance of Navajo service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their people, their homeland, and the United States.

On Navajo Nation Memorial Day, the 25th Navajo Nation Council calls upon the Nation to reflect on the hardships endured by Diné ancestors while also celebrating the perseverance, resilience, and strength that enabled the Navajo people to return home, rebuild, and thrive across generations. The observance recognizes the sacrifices that ensured the survival of the Navajo people and honors the generations who have strengthened the Nation through service, leadership, and perseverance.

“Today, we honor the strength, prayers, and sacrifices of our ancestors who endured unimaginable hardship to ensure the survival of our people,” said Speaker Curley. “The Treaty of 1868 affirms our sovereignty and our enduring connection to our homeland. We also remember the many Navajo warriors who gave their lives in service and the families who continue to carry their memory with pride, dignity, and love. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten.”

The 25th Navajo Nation Council recognizes Navajo Nation Memorial Day as an opportunity to educate younger generations about the significance of the Treaty of 1868 and the history of Navajo military service. The Council also recognizes that the prayers, resilience, and sacrifices of Diné ancestors continue to guide the Nation’s pursuit of self-determination and prosperity.

The 25th Navajo Nation Council further recognizes the families of fallen service members whose sacrifices and strength endure long after military service ends. Their commitment to preserving the memory and legacy of loved ones remains an important part of Navajo Nation Memorial Day observances and the Nation’s collective remembrance.

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Memorial Day honors military members who were killed in action. On this sacred day, NNWO recognizes all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom across the world.

Officially May 30, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May. On June 1, the Navajo Natjon Veterans Administration will host an event honoring those killed in action and a veterans wellness event at Window Rock Veterans Park.

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Navajo Election Administration is hosting voter registration drives in metro areas across the Southwest over the next month.

Any Diné, even those living outside of the Four Sacred Mountains, are able to vote in Navajo Nation elections if registered! In order to vote for President, Council delegates, and numerous other positions across Navajo, you must register to vote by June 11th to participate in the July 21st primary, or by September 24th for the November 3rd general elections.

Navajo Nation Voter Registration Event in Denver, Colorado
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, 5-8pm.
Location: Denver Indian Center

This week, the Tribal Interior Budget Council (TIBC) will convene. TIBC is a collaborative body made up of tribal leaders across the U.S. that works in partnership with the Department of the Interior to shape budget priorities for programs that directly impact tribal communities. Participation in TIBC allows the Navajo Nation to strengthen its ability to advocate for its priorities, uphold its sovereignty, and make sure that federal funding decision better reflet the needs of our people.

Happy Armed Forces Day!

Armed Forces Day recognizes all those who are currently serving across the U.S. Military. Native Americans serve in the military at five times the national average, and the Navajo Nation is proud to be a strong part of that tradition.

Pictured below are Master Sgt. Steve Jakes of Tohlaki, Lance Cpl. Cheston E. Bailon of Shiprock, Sgt. Leighton Redhouse of Upper Fruitland, and Sgt. Jonathon D. Mc Kenzie of Shiprock - all members of the Navajo Nation - while proudly serving with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment Al Asad Air Bade in Al Anbar, Iraq.

U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Shane Keller.

This week’s Wááshindoon Weekly talks about public safety, appropriations, and more! Check it out at the link below:

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