The Associated Press
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 09.28.2006
WINDOW ROCK — An agreement that moves the Navajo and Hopi tribes one step
closer to resolving a decades-old dispute over reservation boundaries was
approved by the Navajo Nation Council during a special session Tuesday.
The council voted 75-3 in favor of the agreement, spurring an eruption of
applause from residents who live on the disputed land. It involves about
700,000 acres of Navajo land that the Hopis claim as their aboriginal homeland and
as sacred to their religion.
"This was the people's victory today," delegate Evelyn Acothley said after
the vote.
In 1966, then-U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs Robert Bennett imposed a
ban on construction — even such minor things as broken windows or roof repairs
— on the disputed acreage, including extension of water and electrical
lines, unless approved by the Hopis.
Council delegate Duane Tsinigine, who sponsored the legislation, cited the
lack of electricity and running water in making his plea to the council to
approve the compact.
Both tribes have been working on the intergovernmental compact the past four
years.
It's a step toward lifting the so-called Bennett Freeze and ending
litigation the Hopi filed against the Navajo in 1974.
As part of the compact, the Hopi would not receive any Navajo land other
than that already awarded by the courts.
Also, Navajos would be allowed to enter Hopi land without a permit for
traditional religious practices.
In turn, Hopis would be allowed to enter Navajo land without a permit for
religious practices.
http://www.azstarnet.com/news/148670