~Est. 1987 • OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE HOPI TRIBE • NEWS SOURCE FOR THE HOPI PEOPLE~

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Volume 31

Number 10

79˚/52˚

Partly cloudy

WEDNESDAY

MAY

17, 2023

~Est. 1987 • OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE HOPI TRIBE • NEWS SOURCE FOR THE HOPI PEOPLE~

Second Mesa Day School Hosts

Reservation Wide Townhall Meeting

to Address the Proposed Hopi School

System Slated to Begin July 1, 2023

May is National

“Mental Health

Month”...read

Month”...

here

Details...PG 5

New Hopi DHHS

Director Hamilton Provides an

Update about

Covid-19 on

Hopi...

PG 9

SR 264 Pavement Project Information here...

Page 6

HTEDC Early Bird Registration for

Hopi Artists announcement...

Page 10

COMMUNITY

Pictured above stakeholders of the local Hopi schools gathered at the Second Mesa Day School gymnasium.

Photo by: R.Laban HT more information on pg. 2.

For Native entrepreneurs by Native entrepreneurs: Change Labs’ entrepreneurship

hub prepares to open its doors in Tuba

City...learn more on pg. 15

HOPI TUTUVENI

PO BOX 123

KYKOTSMOVI, AZ 86039

1110-01600-7460

Page 3

HDPS Announces May 10th

First Responders Mental Health

Awareness Day...pg. 3

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Second Mesa Day School Hosts

Reservation Wide Townhall Meeting

to Address

the Proposed Hopi School System

Slated to Begin July 1, 2023

Hopi Schools To Address the

Proposed Hopi School System

in A Reservationwide Town Hall

For Immediate Release 5-1-23

Submitted by:

Moencopi Day School

Hotevilla-Bacavi Day School

Hopi Day School

Second Mesa Day School

First Mesa Elementary School

Keams Canyon Elementary

School

Hopi School CSA’s and Board Members presenting during the Townhall Meeting. Photo by: R. Laban HT

By: Romalita Laban, Managing

Editor - Hopi Tutuveni

Second Mesa, Ariz. - May 10,

2023 and a day after National Teacher

Appreciation Day, local Hopi school

Administrators and Boards held a

Reservationwide Townhall to present

information about the Hopi School

System - slated for official kick-off,

“just fifty-one days away” on July 1,

2023, at the Second Mesa Day School

gymnasium.

Stakeholders, including students,

parents and community members

were invited to the meeting and many

attended the scheduled two-hour

meeting

The meeting, at which the School

Administrators and Boards determined to inform the constituents, according to distributed flyers that, “All

six elementary schools on the Hopi

Reservation have united to address

the proposed Hopi School System

that is slated to begin on July 1, 2023.

The formulation of the proposed

Hopi School System will impact all

families with children attending any

local school on the Hopi Reservation,

including Hopi Jr./Sr. High School

and is a monumental change to the

current educational system.”

All local Hopi schools were represented, except for Hopi Jr./Sr. High

School.

The entrance was complete with

welcoming school staff, Board

members and volunteers attending to

the sign-in tables, handing out “preevent” survey hard copies and attending to a computer laptop section, for

those choosing the option to complete

a survey online.

A refreshment table was also set

up in the lobby adjacent to the main

lobby leading into the gymnasium.

Attendees were also provided masks

as a courteous offer to aid in ensuring

COVID-19 and other disease prevention. There seemed to be a sense

of urgency in the crowd to get a seat

before the event started.

continued pg.7

Kykotsmovi, AZ - April 27, 2023

All six elementary schools on the

Hopi Reservation have united to

address the proposed Hopi School

System that is slated to begin on

July 1, 2023. The formulation of the

proposed Hopi School System will

impact all families who have a child

attending any school on the Hopi

Reservation including Hopi Jr./Sr.

High School and is a monumental

change that has lacked the input from

many stakeholders including Hopi

students, families and personnel of

the aforementioned schools. A Town

Hall is scheduled for Wednesday,

May 10, 2023 at Second Mesa Day

School beginning at 6:00 p.m. that is

open to the public.

The last time a pivotal change

occurred with Hopi Schools was in

the early 1970’s when the schools

transitioned from being administered

directly by the Bureau of Indian

Affairs to becoming Grant Schools.

A former school board member of

one of the Hopi schools recalls the

“fight” Hopi schools made to become

grant schools, “The Hopi villages did

so (become Grant Schools) to obtain

local control and become self-governing through local school boards”.

In this way, schools became more

accessible to students and families,

and developed educational systems

that best serve students attending

schools in that particular area of the

Hopi reservation.

The Chief School Administrators

and School Boards of the six schools

are citing a host of concerns of the

new Hopi School System which

includes the lack of policies and

procedures needed to administer a

new school district, infrastructure

unavailable two months prior to the

start of the new school system which

includes a non-existent financial plan,

a lack of transparency by the Hopi

Board of Education, and the lack of

input by stakeholders that includes

the Hopi public, students, families

and school personnel that has fostered

mistrust and a lack of buy-in for this

new system.

The Six Hopi Schools united in this

effort include Moencopi Day School,

Hotevilla-Bacavi Community School,

Hopi Day School, Second Mesa

Day School, First Mesa Elementary

School and Keams Canyon Elementary School. Parties related to this effort

have been invited to the Town Hall

that include the Bureau of Indian Education, Hopi Tribal Chairman, Hopi

Tribal Vice-Chairman, Hopi Tribal

Council, the Hopi Health And Education Committee, the Hopi Board of

Education and the Hopi public.

For More Information contact:

Your local school or 928-734-2467.

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Hopi Tribe Department of Public Safety Announcement

May 10th recognized as First Responders Mental Health Awareness Day

Submitted by: Kevin Dennis, Structure Firefighter - Department Of Public

Safety

Kykotsmovi, Ariz. – May 10, 2023 May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and

is a time to raise awareness of and reduce the stigma surrounding behavioral health

issues, as well as highlighting the ways how mental illness and addiction can affect all

of us – patients, providers, families, and our society at large.

First responders are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty

All first responders we all trust and depend on also have mental health care needs

that deserve to be met.

We know a number of factors contribute to mental health issues among First Responders. One study found that on average, first responders witness 188 traumatic and

critical incidents during their careers. This repeated exposure to trauma can lead to

several forms of distress such as anxiety, insomnia, post traumatic symptoms, and depression. For action, we must first have understanding. Research frequently describes

shame and stigma surrounding mental health care needs within a profession that prioritizes bravery and toughness. While this culture is perhaps necessary to survive the

dangers of the job, it also contributes to the phenomena of responders & officers not

seeking help to manage chronic stress or trauma injury, or even recognizing the need

before it becomes critical.

Mental Health Awareness Month

WHEREAS, mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social

well-being; it affects how we think, feel, and act; it also affects how we handle stress,

relate to others, and make choices; and

WHEREAS, mental health allows us to maintain relationships, take care of ourselves and our families, take care of our physical bodies, and respond and adapt to

daily life changes; and

WHEREAS, 1 in 5 adolescents have had a serious mental health disorder at some

point in their life; and

WHEREAS, 50% of all mental health disorders begin by age 14, and 75% of all

mental health disorders begin by age 24; and

WHEREAS, suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States with a death

every 11 minutes; and

WHEREAS, talking about mental health can reduce stigma and increase awareness

of the devastating consequences of unaddressed mental illness; and

WHEREAS, evidence-based mental and behavioral health training teaches people

how to recognize signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges

and provides skills to assist people who may be facing a mental health crisis; and

WHEREAS, since taking office, my administration has proposed historic investments in behavioral health services and state psychiatric facilities, recruiting and

retaining hundreds of mental health workers and expanding access to mental health

resources in schools and through community agencies; and,

WHEREAS, mental health training for teens is proven to reduce stigma and teach

teens how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance

use challenges among their friends and peers;

WHEREAS, investing in mental health and safety is critical to building strong

workplaces, a thriving workforce, and strong communities

Implement Mental Health Support

Mental health is vital to everyday functioning. If your First Responders are suffering

mentally, they can’t perform their jobs as efficiently and safely. This puts them as well

as others at risk. Make sure your First Responders have a mental health strategy that

includes PTSD support and that your team knows they can come to you if they are

struggling.

We owe a great debt to our first responders

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

HOPI TRIBAL COUNCIL

2nd Quarter Session

March, 2023

MONTH OF MAY 2023 AGENDA

X. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

1. Discussion and possible action – Letter dated March

31, 2022 Re: Village of Shungopavi’s request for information regarding land lease, including ownership of the property comprising the Hopi Cultural Center – Craig Andrews,

Vice Chairman, The Hopi Tribe – Tabled

2. Discussion and possible action - Letter dated by September 19, 2022 RE: Survey conducted by Hopi Elections

Office from Dale Sinquah, Tribal Council Representative,

First Mesa Consolidated Villages – Tabled

3. Action Item #090-2022 - Intergovernmental Agreement between the State of Arizona and the Hopi Tribe

– Author/Donovan Gomez, Transit Administrator, Hopi

Senom Transit – Tabled

XI. NEW BUSINESS

1. Action Item #043-2023 – To clarify sections of the

2023 Expenditure Authorization & Appropriations Language (EAAL) – Author/Eugene Talas, Chair, Budget

Oversight Team

2. Action Item #045-2023 – 2023-2027 Hopi Department

of Transportation Tribal Transportation Improvement Plan

(TTIP) – Author/Michael Lomayaktewa, Director, Hopi

Department of Transportation

3. Action Item #046-2023 – Approve Lease Agreement

between Hopi Tribe on behalf of First Mesa Consolidated

Villages and Arizona Public Service – Staff Housing Author/Michele Honanie, Realty Specialist, Office of Real

Estate Services

4. Action Item #047-2023 – To approve and accept funding from the National Science Foundation (SNF) SCC-IRG

Track 1 for the implementation of the Qoyangnuptu (SunRise) in the amount of $467,563 – Author/Laverne Dallas, Director, Behavioral Health Services - Time Certain,

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.

5. Action Item #048-2023 – To rescind Hopi Tribal

Council Resolution H-044-2015 (changing the name of the

Chief Administrative Officer to Executive Director), and

H-022-2023 (approves the modification of the Executive

Director’s positon) – Author/Marilyn Fredericks, Tribal

Council Representative, Village of Bacavi

6. Action Item #049-2023 – 2023 HDOT Contractual

Agreement – Show Low Construction, Inc. – Author/Michael Lomayaktewa, Director, Hopi Department of Transportation

7. Letter dated April 17, 2023 from Andrew Larson,

Indian Health Service-Office of Environmental Health and

Engineering, RE: Presentation of the Scope, timeline, and

Budget Information for the funded Indian Health Projects

– Raymond Namoki, Council Representative, Village of

Sipaulovi – **Time Certain, Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at

1:00 p.m.

8. Letter dated April 27, 2023 from Dale Sinquah, Water/

Energy Committee Chairman, RE: Draft Supplemental

Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for the Near-Term

Operations of the Colorado River – Rosa Honani, Council

Representative, Village of Sipaulovi - **Time Certain,

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at 9:15 a.m.

9. Letter dated April 27, 2023 from Dale Sinquah, Water/

Energy Committee Chairman, RE: Water Rights Negotiation Team (WRNT) report on the consultation and present

the team’s proposed comments to the draft SEIS that are

due to the Federal Government on May 30, 2023 – Dale

Sinquah, Council Representative, First Mesa Consolidated

Villages - **Time Certain, Tuesday, May 24, 2023 at 9:30

a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

10. Discussion/Possible Action – Memorandum dated

March 16, 2023 from Eugene Talas, Chairman, Budget

Oversight Team (BOT) to obtain general direction from

Tribal Council members for BOT to plan and develop the

FY 2024 General Fund Budget - **Time Certain, Monday,

May 8, 2023 at 1:00 p.m.

11. Discussion/Possible Action – Memorandum dated

April 27, 2023 from Dale Sinquah, Chairman, Water/Energy Committee, RE: Attendance at the Colorado River Basin Tribal Coalition meeting on June 7-9, 2023 in Boulder,

CO – Rosa Honani, Tribal Council Representative, Village

of Sipaulovis

12. Discussion/Possible Action – Letter dated April 20,

2023 from Mr. Clyde Qotswisiwma, Chairman, Hopi Election Board, Hopi Tribe, RE: Extension of Terms for Karen

L. Shupla’s term as Tribal Registrar and two (2) Hopi

Continued pg. 5

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

HOPI TRIBAL COUNCIL

2nd Quarter Session

March, 2023

MONTH OF MAY 2023 AGENDA, continued...

6. Land Commission

7. Water/Energy Committee

8. Transportation Committee

9. Law & Order Committee

10. Investment Committee

a. Walpi Housing Management Agreement Communications

– TABLED

11. Health/Education Committee

12. Hopi Pandemic Recovery

Committee – Report for April

2023

13. Hopi Tribal Economic Development Corporation – Annual

Review Fiscal Year 2022 – Lucinda Smiley, Chief Executive

Officer, HTEDC – Time Certain,

Monday, May 22, 2023 at 1:00

XII. REPORTS

1. Office of the Chairman – Hopi p.m.

Executive Order No. 001-2023 –

XIII. ADJOURNMENT

Lifting of Face Mask Mandate

2. Office of the Vice Chairman

*Hopi Tribal Council may go

3. Office of Tribal Secretary

into

Executive Session on any

4. Office of the Treasurer

5. Office of the General Counsel agenda item

**Time Certain Requests

Election Board members terms.

Update on advertisement update

on the vacant board positions from

the Office of the Tribal Secretary

– Ruth Kewanimptewa, Tribal

Council Representative, Village of

Bacavi - **Time Certain, Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.

13. Ratification of Memorandum

dated May 1, 2023 from Herman

G. Honanie, Chairman, Hopi Land

Commission, RE: Ratification of

individuals to the Hopi-Navajo

Joint Eagle Commission – Dale

Sinquah, Council Representative,

First Mesa Consolidated Villages

May is Mental Health Awareness

Month

Submitted by: Andrea Joshevama, Hopi BHS Substance Abuse

Clinician

Kykotsmovi, Ariz. – May 11, 2023 Let’s support each other and make it

okay to reach out and seek help whenever we need it. It is up to each of us to

be a lifeline, sharing in a commitment to care for ourselves and those around

us. Our words matter! Itam sosoyom nanami tunaltyawtotini!

If you are feeling distressed, overwhelmed or just need to talk, you can call

or text 988 24/7 or 1-844-534-4673. Or come to Hopi BHS for counseling

services at 928-737-6300.

Upcoming events: Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) workshop on

Thursday, 6/15/23 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Kykotsmovi Youth and Elder

Center. Learn about how trauma and toxic stress impacts our overall health.

Become proactive and learn ways to break the cycle of trauma and reverse the

harsh impacts of toxic stress. To register, email: ciera.hensley@navajocountyaz.gov

May is National

“Mental Health Month”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Submitted by: Bernadean Kachinhongva, HSAPC Mentor

Kykotsmovi, Ariz. - May 10, 2023 The month of May is National “Mental

Health Awareness Month”. The H.O.P.I. Substance Abuse Prevention Center

(HSAPC) is recognizing Mental Health awareness month. This is a public

health campaign created to educate people on the rise of mental health illnesses worldwide. Under the umbrella of mental health, we would like to focus on

highlighting, “Borderline Personality Disorder Awareness” as well this month.

An individual living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) tends to

struggle with a distorted self-image and often feels as if they’re completely

worthless or flawed. They may display frequent mood swings, anger, and/or

impulsive behaviors. Borderline Personality Disorder is a mental health condition that has been brought to light in recent years. There are some misconceptions about individuals who are living with BPD. Some misconceptions lead

to stigma, often leading to avoidance of the individual. Which has an impact

on the communities. An individual with BPD needs support and guidance in

becoming self-aware. Some possible behavioral signs to help an individual

with BPD recognize are impulsive and dangerous lifestyles (spending sprees,

unsafe sex, reckless driving, binge eating, gambling, substance abuse, etc.),

and intense mood swings. Some BPD symptoms can be similar or overlap

with other mental health problems.

Some calming coping skills that can be helpful for someone living with

BPD are writing all negative feelings on a paper and tearing it up; Listening

to soothing or uplifting music; cuddling a pet; and allowing yourself to cry or

sleep for a while. If you or a loved one would like more information on BPD,

reach out to your local Mental Health facilities for guidance.

The HSAPC staff recognizes the importance of these awareness’s within our

communities. As a grant recipient of Arizona’s Governor’s Office of Youth,

Faith, and Family’s - Trauma Informed Substance Abuse Prevention Program

(funds provided through SAMHSA), the HSAPC staff receive trauma-informed care training and utilize strategies in our services. HSAPC mentors

help individuals work through their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual

healing journey. “We believe in honoring ourselves by living an honest, sober,

balanced life.” Healing begins with you!

HSAPC mentors provide one-to-one mentoring services for youth and

adults, group classes, community presentations, supportive programs for local

schools, and cognitive restructuring for a positive recovery journey. As a

non-profit organization, all HSAPC services are free of charge. We encourage

all in their recovery journey to take it one day at a time, sometimes it’s one

moment at a time. If you feel comfortable reaching out to HSAPC mentors,

call 928-734-0300. You can also call Hopi Behavioral Health Services at

928-737-6300 to schedule an appointment or call your local Behavioral Health

facility.

###

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

SR 264 Pavement

Rehabilitation

SR 264/IR-4 Intersection Project

HOTEVILLA-BACAVI - HOPI RESERVATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

By: Arizona Department of Transportation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phoenix, Ariz. – April 26, 2023 The Arizona Department of Transportation is initiating a pavement rehabilitation project on State Route 264 west of Second Mesa on the

Hopi Indian Reservation (mileposts 360-374). The purpose of the project is to extend

the life of the pavement and create a smooth driving surface.

PROJECT ELEMENTS

The work will include:

• Removing the existing surface pavement and replacing it with new asphalt.

• Restriping the roadway and other related work.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• SR 264 will be reduced to one lane only in the work zone with alternating eastand westbound travel for a few weeks beginning May 8, 2023.

• Traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car.

• Restrictions will be in place weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6

anticipated.

p.m. No weekend work

By: Arizona Department of Transportation

Phoenix, Ariz. – April 26, 2023 The Arizona Department of Transportation, in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration

and Hopi Tribe, has initiated a safety project at the State Route 264/

IR-4 intersection to install intersection lighting and construct an

asphalt pedestrian pathway with solar lighting.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The $775,000 project will improve pedestrian safety near the existing roadway by providing lighting and constructing a pedestrian pathway that leads

to the Hopi Cultural Center.

• Once paving work is completed, crews will return 30 days later to stripe the highway.

The project, located between mileposts 379-380, is expected to be under

construction in spring 2023 and completed in fall 2023.

• Drivers need to be prepared to slow down and stop in the work zone and use caution around construction personnel and equipment while the restrictions are in place.

WHAT TO EXPECT

STAY INFORMED

There will be no traffic restrictions or closures as part of this project.

•

Email: Sign up to receive timely email notifications on upcoming traffic restrictions by clicking on the “subscribe for updates” link on the project web page.

•

Project Web Page: azdot.gov/SR264paving

•

Phone: Ryan Harding, ADOT Community Relations Project Manager:

602.550.8397

•

Teléfono: Línea Bilingüe Para Información sobre el Proyecto: 855.712.8530

•

By mail: ADOT Community Relations c/o Ryan Harding, 1655 W. Jackson St.,

MD 126F, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other

nondiscrimination laws and authorities, ADOT does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,

sex, age, or disability. Persons that require a reasonable accommodation based on language or disability should

contact Ryan Harding at RHarding@azdot.gov or 602.550.8397. Requests should be made as early as possible to

ensure the State has an opportunity to address the accommodation.

De acuerdo al Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, la Ley para Estadounidenses con Discapacidades

(ADA por sus siglas en inglés) y otras leyes y autoridades contra la discriminación, ADOT no discrimina por

raza, color, origen nacional, edad, género o discapacidad. Las personas que requieran una adaptación razonable basada en el idioma o la discapacidad deben comunicarse con Ryan Harding al RHarding@azdot.gov o al

602.550.8397. Las solicitudes deben hacerse lo más pronto posible para asegurar que ADOT tenga oportunidad

de hacer los arreglos necesarios.

• Phone: 602.550.8397

• Email: rharding@azdot.gov

• Website: azdot.gov/projects/northeast-district-projects/state-route-264-ir4-intersection

• Mail: ADOT Community Relations c/o Ryan Harding1655 W. Jackson

St., MD126F Phoenix, AZ 85007

Pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with

Disabilities Act (ADA) and other nondiscrimination laws and authorities,

ADOT does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,

sex, age, or disability. Persons that require a reasonable accommodation

based on language or disability should contact Ryan Harding at rharding@

azdot.gov or 602.550.8397. Requests should be made as early as possible

to ensure the state has an opportunity to address the accommodation.

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Second Mesa Day School Hosts Reservation Wide Townhall Meeting to Address the Proposed Hopi School System

Slated to Begin July 1, 2023...continued from pg. 2

The event was facilitated by Deborah Secakuku-Baker, Parent Liaison – Hopi Day

School who was joined by a panel of local Hopi school Administrators and School

Board members and presented an Agenda listing the following: Welcome Address

by Mrs. Kim Thomas, CSA - SMDS, Opening Prayer by Todd Honyouma, HBCS

Board President, Introduction of Facilitator by Deborah Baker, Parent Liaison - HDS,

PowerPoint Presentation by CSA’s and Board Presidents, Questions and Answers by

Facilitator and Panel, Announcements by CSA’s and Closing Remarks by Timothy

Nuvangyaoma, Hopi Tribal Chairman.

In addition to providing an Agenda, other materials handed out to attendees included the following:

• Copy of an April 15, 2023 addressed to Hopi Tribal Council RE: ACTION ITEM

from TeJay Montgomery, Chief School Administrator and Martha Mase, Board

President - Hopi Day School.

• A document titled “POSITION STATEMENT HOPI SCHOOL SYSTEM TRANSITION SCHEDULED FOR JULY 1, 2023

• Document titled, “HOPI TRIBAL COUNCIL RESOLUTION H-XXX-YEAR”

• A twenty-three-page response document to the Hopi Board of Education (HBE)

Application from the United State Department of the Interior - Bureau of Indian

Education with an Overview section noting, “The purpose of the HBE Education

Application Review Document is to provide recommendations, clarification, and

feedback prior to the approval determination of the HBE consolidation application. (25U.S.C. §2504 (b)(2)(B)(ii) - other determination and 25 U.S.C. §2504 (e)

- Effective date)...In this document, you will see a description of the process and

procedure in reviewing the application. An explanation for the recommendations,

clarification and verification is provided with corresponding section. Please note,

this document is provided for the HBE’s purposed and any recommendations to

change or modify your application is at the discretion of the Board.”

• and a list of all Hopi Tribal Council Members with email addresses for some.

The PowerPoint Presentation provided by the CSA’s and Board Presidents included

the following individuals on the panel: Robert Toleson - CSA MDS, Doris Honanie

MDS Board President, Lori Harding CSA HBCS, Todd Honyaoma, Sr. HBCS President, TeJay Montgomery CSA HDS, Martha Mase HDS Board President, Kimberly

Thomas CSA SMDS, Felicia Sewemaenewa SMDS Board President, Alma Sinquah

CSA FMES, Madonna Dawasevaya FMES Board President, Vivian Quanimptewa

KCES Board President.

Prior to introducing the Panel, Deborah Baker mentioned a pointed position and

notified the attendees that to get to this point in time, with the Hopi Schools becoming

unified under one system, the HBE had to apply via application to the BIE - DOI.

Baker then mentioned on pg. 4 of the application which the HBE completed and

submitted to the BIE-DOI, there is question no. 29 which states, “Identify the needs as

expressed by all affected parties, including but not limited to students, families, tribal

government at both the central and local levels, and school organizations” and then

noted that the HBE answered the question with, “Not Applicable”

Baker than noted the reason the meeting was called due to the importance of letting

the stakeholders know, “...where we are at in terms of this new school system...” She

further expressed, to the effect, that to learn that such a question was answered with

a response of “Not Applicable” was very concerning since stakeholders are a very

important and integral part of a school system and how it is developed and run. She

reminded attendees to keep the question and how the HBE answered in mind as they

continued on with the Panel presentation.

The presentation started with Madonna Dawasevaya, FMES Board President reading a Press Release dated April 27, 2023 with an updated issue date of 5-1-23 titled,

“Hopi Schools To Address the Proposed Hopi School System in A Reservation wide

Town Hall” (see pg. 2 for the Press Release)

Most notably was the portion reading, “...a monumental change that has lacked the

input from many stakeholders including Hopi students, families and personnel of the

aforementioned schools.” Baker emphasized that point moments prior.

As described in the Press Release, the Panel members then went one by one in

describing their perspectives and concerns about what has been occurring during the

transition period leading up to this point in time.

Each Panel member took a turn making statements covering topics such as being

“nowhere ready by July 1, 2023...” and being described as “right around the corner.”

Further mentions included the CSA’s noting this time of year being very busy for

continued pg.14

Hopi Schools Townhall attendees enjoying refreshments. Photo by: R. Laban HT

Hopi School staff and volunteers welcome attendees to Townhall. Photo by: R. Laban HT

HOPI H.E.O.C UPDATES

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Hopi Tribe Department of Health and Human Services Covid-19 Emergency Response

By: Romalita Laban, Managing Editor

Kykotsmovi, Ariz. - May 12, 2023 Due to transitions occurring in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) the August 26, 2022

COVID 19 report was the latest data being provided for the public.

Hopi Tutuveni was informed by previous Interim DHHS staff that until DHHS and Tribal Leadership determined roles of the Public Health Authority, no reports would be submitted to Hopi Tutuveni.

Hopi Tutuveni Staff and Editorial Board know the importance of providing such important health information to the Hopi public. Since Hopi is

still officially under Pandemic status and there are known active COVID cases on Hopi, we continue to welcome updates from DHHS and/or the

Hopi H.E.O.C. about that important information which impacts the Hopi public.

Hopi Tutuveni continued republishing the last and latest Covid-19 Report dated August 26, 2022 received from DHHS and up through the third

year of the pandemic, in the March 15, 2023 publication. The August 26, 2023 Response report can still be found online at: https://www.hopi-nsn.

gov/news/hopi-tutuveni

We are pleased to inform the Hopi Tutuveni readership that Joyce Hamilton, a very qualified Hopi woman, with well over twenty years of experience in working with the Hopi Tribe’s HDHHS. She has been selected as a new Director, a leader at the helm of HDHHS since April 25, 2023.

We appreciate the latest update and submission being provided in response to Hopi Tutuveni’s request for this dedicated space for important health

information for the Hopi public.

Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation reconfirms mask mandate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Submitted by: George Joe, Office of Communications - Tuba City Regional Health Care Corp.

Tuba City, Ariz. - May 5, 2023 Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (TCRHCC) is reconfirming its mask mandate at all TCRHCC health care

locations across the Western region of the Navajo, Hopi, and San Juan-Paiute

reservations.

“Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation will continue to have staff,

patients and visitors wear masks at all our facilities and clinics,” announced

CEO Joette Walters.

On Friday May 5th Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren announced a

lifting of the mask mandate across the Nation, but that “health care facilities,

nursing homes, and schools can do so under their own guidelines.”

Health care facilities regularly see patients with possible COVID symptoms. Masks help prevent all respiratory viruses -- not just COVID -- and help

keep healthcare workers and patients healthy and safe.

COVID vaccinations and testing are still available at the TCRHCC driveup vaccine clinic near the entrance of the TCRHCC campus from Monday to

Friday 8:00-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-4:00 p.m.

Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation is a Joint Commission accredited 73-bed health center that provides services to a 6,000 square mile area

and serves as a referral center for the western region of the Navajo. Hopi, and

San Juan-Paiute Reservations. TRCHCC is a P.L. 93-638 health care facility

and operates the Sacred Peaks Clinic in Flagstaff, Ariz. and LeChee Healthy

Facility near Page, Ariz.

###

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Hopi Department of Health and

Human Services Update

Submitted by: Joyce Hamilton, Director - CHR Manager/DHHS Director - Department of Health & Human Services

Kykotsmovi, Ariz. – May 12, 2023 As we move into the season of celebrations for promotions and graduations let’s not forget that the COVID-19

virus continues to lurk among our community. While numbers from the Indian

Health Services showcase a significant decline in COVID-19 positive cases,

the public is encouraged to be cognizant of taking preventative measures to

protect yourself and your family against the virus.

The downward trends of the COVID-19 in the United States has prompted

an ending to the Public Health Emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023. The ending of the COVID-19 PHE is not quite ready to be lifted on the Hopi reservation with the exception of Executive Order No. 001-2023 Lifting of Face Mask

Mandate.

On April 26, 2023 the Hopi Tribe signed Executive Order No. 001-2023 authorizing lifting of the existing mask mandate for Hopi communities and public spaces. The decision to lift the face mask mandate was prompted by clinical

population health metrics which indicates the current level of COVID-19

positive cases for our population to be “low.”

The Executive Order “highly recommends” that everyone 5 years of age and

older complete an updated booster series of the COVID-19 vaccine to increase

the vaccination rates to ensure Tribal member are protected from the virus.

Vaccinations against the COVID-19 virus can protect against serious illness

and prevent hospitalization if one should contract the virus.

The Hopi Tribe will remain in Phase-3 re-opening status which incorporates

a phased approach to addressing the COVID-19 case data as work continues

with partners from the IHS-Hopi Health Care Center, Tuba City Health Care

Cooperation, and Winslow Health Care Center.

The ongoing data monitoring, analysis and assessments of case numbers will

allow Tribal Leadership to make decisions and build a foundation to determine

next steps in the near future that are in the best interest of the Hopi people.

While masking is now optional for villages, businesses and schools, it is

recommended to carry face masks as a few business entities have continued

the face mask mandate. Plans are in the works from Indian Health Services

and the Hopi Tribal Department of Health Services to coordinate vaccination

drives to increase the COVID-19 vaccination rates for Hopi Tribal Employees

and villages.

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms are encouraged to get tested

and anyone testing positive for COVID-19 virus must continue to wear a face

mask to protect others around you and most importantly staying at home.

Anyone testing positive for COVID-19 virus should continue to follow

standard recommendations for isolation and avoid contact with others to avoid

further spread of the virus. The Hopi Tribe Community Health Representative (CHR) program, housed at the Hopi Health Care Center, will continue to

provide face masks and COVID-19 home test kits for the community. Vaccinations are available at the Hopi Health Care Center, contact the Hopi Health

Care center to schedule an appointment by calling (928)737-6148 as vaccination clinic days and times vary.

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

The Hopi Tribe P.O. Box 123 Kykotsmovi, AZ 86039

Ph: (928) 734-3281 • Ph: (928) 734-3283

Editorial Board of the Hopi Tutuveni

Wilma Dengavi , Gary LaRance, George Mase

Hopi Tutuveni Staff

Managing Editor - Romalita Laban

RLaban@hopi.nsn.us

ARTICLES:

The Hopi Tutuveni welcomes

original articles reporting on

local, state and national news

items on issues related to Hopi

or of interest to Tutuveni readers.

We are especially interested

in articles reporting on issues

impacting the Hopi community or on events and activities

involving members of the Hopi

Tribe. Articles should not exceed

750 words and should follow

Associated Press (AP) style and

formatting. The Managing Editor

reserves the right to edit articles

for style, length and clarity. If

significant editing is required, the

Managing Editor will communicate with the author prior to

publication.

PRESS RELEASES:

Press releases must be submitted

on official letterhead and include

the name of the organization,

contact person, telephone

number and email address. Press

releases should not exceed 500

words and submissions may be

edited for length and clarity at

the discretion of the Managing

Editor.

LETTERS TO THE

EDITOR:

Letters should not exceed 250

words and must include the

name of the author and complete

contact information (address,

phone number or email address)

CIRCULATION

and the headline and date of

the article on which you are

commenting. Anonymous letters

and letters written under pseudonyms will not be published.

The Tutuveni Editorial Board

reviews all submissions and

reserves the right not to publish

letters it considers to be highly

sensitive or potentially offensive

to readers, or that may be libelous

or slanderous in nature.

OPINION EDITORIALS:

Submissions must be exclusive

to Hopi Tutuveni and should not

exceed 1,000 words. Include with

your submission your name and

complete contact information,

along with a short 2-3-sentence

bio.

SUBMISSION

INSTRUCTIONS:

All press releases, articles, letters

to the editor and Opinion Editorials electronically as a Word

document or as plain text in the

body of an email to the Managing Editor, Romalita Laban. Articles, press releases and editorials

that include photographs must

be in high resolution, 300dpi

or more and must be your own.

All photographs must include

photo credit and a caption for

each photo listing the names of

all persons included in the photo

and description of what the photo is about. (call 928-734-3283

for deadline schedule).

The Hopi Tutuveni is published twice a month, with a circulation

of 2,500 copies throughout the entire Hopi Reservation. The paper

is delivered on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month to the

following locations: Moenkopi Travel Center, Moenkopi Legacy

Inn, Hotevilla Store, Kykotsmovi Village Store, Tribal Government

Complex, Hopi Cultural Center, Hopi Health Care Center, Polacca

Circle M, Keams Canyon Store.

Tawatiyo KUYI Hopi Radio DJ Interviews

Kellen “Runntuff ” Lomayestewa

Hopi Runner Completes 250-mile Cocodona Run

Hopi Tribal Council

Timothy L. Nuvangyaoma,

Chairman

Craig Andrews

Vice Chairman

Judith Youvella

Tribal Secretary

Nada Talayumptewa,

Tribal Treasurer

Alfonso Sakeva,

Sergeant-At-Arms

Village of Upper

Moenkopi

William Charley

Danny Humetewa Sr.

Leroy Sumatzkuku

Michael Elmer

Village of Bakabi

Marilyn Fredericks

Ruth Kewanimptewa

Dwayne Secakuku

Pictured above: Tawatiyo, KUYI Hopi Radio DJ interviewing Kellen “Runntuff” Lomayestewa about completing the 250-mile Cocodona Run. Photo courtesy: R. Laban, HT

By: Romalita Laban, Hopi Tutuveni

Second Mesa, Ariz. – May 12, 2023 Hopi Tutuveni

popped into “sister media outlet” KUYI Hopi Radio

88.1FM, located at the Second Mesa Junction of AZ

Highway 264 and 87, on this beautiful May 12th morning to capture some live photo shots of Tawatiyo KUYI

DJ conducting an interview with Kellen Runntuff Lomayestewa - Hopi runner.

Lomayestewa recently completed the five-day, 250

mile Cocodona Run held May 1-6, 2023 and covering

parts of Hopitutskwa, in Northeastern Arizona. Lomayestewa was accompanied at the interview by one of his

biggest supporters during the run, his wife - Keesha

Lomayestewa.

He reached his first 100 miles nearby Mingus, Ariz.

which marked one of the longest distances he had run

in his life. He shared in his words, “I struggled going up

Mingus Mountain...and I made it to the top...then ran

from Mingus to Jerome...” He continued, “…then I got to

the top and leveled out when I reached Jerome...”

When asked how he felt when he reached the finish

line he shared, “...happy, relieved...like a whole lot of...I

guess…pride. It was a tough run.”

Tawatiyo stated, “Your supporters were all there?” and

Lomayestewa responded, “Yeah it was 4 o’clock in the

morning...everyone was yelling around.”

Tawatiyo asked what stood out from, a Hopi perspective of teachings from uncles, family and others, while he

Pictured above: (l-r) Keesha Lomayestewa showing moral support for her husband,

Kellen “Runntuff” Lomayestewa being interviewed. Photo courtesy: R. Laban, HT

was completing this goal. Lomayestewa summarized that

with a lot of what we do in life, we may not plan it all the

way out but somehow we get it done with a lot of hard

work.

He also shared that, “...it was pretty strange the whole

time I was out there...people were trying to message me...

came to a point...at like 2 o’clock in the morning and I

dropped another glove.” He continued, “...right off the

bat I took the wrong turn but got back on the trail...got

back in the trees...trying to see the sky...”

He also described feeling strange in “no man’s land”

and texted his wife, Keesha, messaging, “I think I’m all

by myself out here.” At one point he turned on his phone

and found “all these messages came through, encouraging me.”

He also described what it felt like after running so long

that one might start hallucinating. He described a moment when he over tree stumps and saw turkey feathers

and started thinking, “Maybe those were all the prayers

people were sending.”

Tawatiyo mentioned that such an experience is sure to

be one that Lomayestewa will hold close for a long time

before asking if there were last comments Kellen would

like to share with the listening audience.

Kellen encouraged all the youth to keep going strong,

to be committed and that he hopes to be able to see

someone else conquer a 250-mile, as well. Big congrats

to Kellen for completing such an awesome feat.

Nahongvitotani!

Village of Kyakotsmovi

David Talayumptewa

Gary P. Kelhoyouma

Danny Honanie

Herman G. Honanie

Village of Sipaulavi

Rosa Honanie

Anita Bahnimptewa

Raymond Namoki

Village of Mishongnovi

Arthur Batala

Ronald Humeyestewa

Marilyn Tewa

Mervin Yoyetewa

First Mesa Consolidated

Villages

Albert T. Sinquah

Dale Sinquah

Wallace Youvella, Jr.

Vacant

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

NOTICE SEEKING PUBLIC

COMMENT ON PROPOSED

USDA RURAL HOUSING PRESERVATION GRANT APPLICATION [Docket No. RHS–22–SFH–

0008]

Advertise

in this 1

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x 10” for

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Call:

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3281

This notice is provided pursuant to the USDA Rural Housing Preservation Grants opportunity, USDA-RD-HCFP-HPG-2023. Red Feather Development Group (Red Feather) is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit

organization located in Flagstaff, AZ. Red Feather’s

mission is to partner with Indigenous communities

to develop and implement lasting and impactful

housing solutions. Our proposal seeks funding that

will support the performance of home repairs and

weatherization for low-income tribal households located within the boundaries of the Hopi Reservation

and Navajo Reservation. Red Feather’s Statement

of Activities for this proposal can be reviewed at:

https://www.redfeather.org/usda-statement-of-activities.html. Public comments and questions pertaining to this funding can be submitted via email

to: Joe Seidenberg, Red Feather Executive Director,

at joe@redfeather.org, or mailed to: 2717 N. Steves

Blvd, Suite 8, Flagstaff, AZ 86004. For more information call 928-440-5119.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

CHILDREN’S CAMP

AGES 5 TO 10

MAY 30 TO JUNE 2 AT

PEACE ACADEMIC CTROPEN REGISTRATION

STARTS AT 8 AM

CHCM Christian Hopi Camp Meeting presents 3

camps for 2023. All camps have planned activities,

Bible teachings/songs with meals provided. Call or

text for info or to schedule child transportation with

Lydia (928)313-8202 or Marvin (928)606-2231.

Would you like to put your

legals into the Newspaper?

For a single price you can put

your legals into the Hopi

Tutuveni

Call 928-734-3281

Hopilavit - Everyday words

S M I S M

T U M A L

J U T P A

S P J P C

D I L T O

F T V M A

I A A A P

Y N S W V

O A P O V

H K O A I

O T A K A

T S U Q P

I Y T A B

I K A V O

Y T A L A

O Q E H I

P I

I Q A

Y A W

Y A B

A Q N

U A P

N W O

D I

Y S G

T T F

U O A

K H J

O G O

P K A

N I W

A Q O

I K I

H I K

S I N

S T

I U

V T

A U

Q Q

O A

P Y

Q I

O W

T A

R Y

H U

A M

J A

N A

O Y

P K

HOPI WORDS

Kyesmismuyaw - December

Wiiki’yma - Guide (Singular)

Tuwi’yta - Able (skillful)

Pö’i’yta - Debt (Have)

Sivaqöpqö - Heater

Yuki’at - Accomplishment

Öqala - Determined

Hopiiqatsi - Hopi Way of Life

Tukopna - Accuse

Alögö - Different

Nù’okwa - Kind Hearted

Hintsakpi - Activity

Hötsiwa - Doorway

Ngahu - Medicine

Pu’ason - Afterward

Hiihiko - Drink

Muytala - Moon Light

Qe’ti - Back out of

Nan’ip - Each (of two)

Tömö - Season (Winter)

Novaki - Bakery

Tutuqayiw - Education

Nuvati - Snowed

Tuptsiwni - Belief

Töövu - Ember

Nawini - Suggestion

Kwusiva - Bring

Tumal’aya - Employee

Tsangaw - Thank Goodness

Pàato - Burst

Tunatya - Endeavor

Kyaamuya - Winter (Solstice)

Pitanakts - Cap/Hat

Naatsiki - Factionalize

Hihìiyà - Wow!

Sikiki - Car (Auto)

Qöpqö - Fire place

Kansulmongwi - Chairman

Saavu - Fire wood

Namora - Choice

Tuuqayta - Fluent

Iyoho’ti - Cold (Weather)

Qalaptu - Get Over (Recover)

TICK-TACK-TOE

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Efforts are underway to build American Indian Veterans Memorial

By: Paula Pedene - Arizona Republic

Phoenix, Ariz. - March 31, 2023 Native Americans serve in the United States Armed Forces at

five times the national average. For a community

that has persevered through decades of challenges,

Native Americans – also called American Indians

– have remained steadfast in their defense of the

United States as members of the Armed Forces for

centuries. So, it is only natural they would wish to

keep that military service heritage alive for future

generations.

Kent Ware Sr., a highly decorated World War

II veteran and respected elder of the Kiowa tribe,

dreamed of building a memorial to honor the American Indian veterans of all wars. He founded the

American Indian Veterans Memorial Organization

(AIVMO) to provide a place for veterans, their

families, loved ones, and survivors to gather and

pay tribute to living and deceased military members.

AIVMO was granted a site to build the Memorial at

Steele Indian School Park under a Memorandum of

Understanding with the City of Phoenix, Parks, and

Recreation Department.

Renowned Hopi artist, veteran, and Phoenix Indian School graduate Dennis Numekena designed

the Memorial to capture the spirit of the eagle and

incorporate the four elements of creation: fire, water, earth, and air. Using these ceremonial elements

in the design gives it a sense of American Indian

spirituality to guide bringing the spirits of all be-

loved warriors home. The Memorial will be built

at the west end of Steele Indian School Lake. The

original architectural design has been altered slightly by Navajo architect Richard Begaye, a partner of

SPS+Architecture, to fit the site better.

Although the original project lay dormant for

years after Kent Ware Senior’s death, his son Kent

Ware is reviving the effort to build the Memorial,

which costs about $700,000.

“My dad was a top turret gun runner in a B17

World War II bomber. His military service was

important to him, and he felt that since the Indian

School was gone, he wanted his descendants to be

able to recognize American Indian Veterans. We’re

working to keep his vision going,” Ware says.

Their team has already raised $350,000 to build

the Memorial. One of the key supporters is Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community Vice President

Ricardo Leonard. His tribe is contributing along

with the Tohono O’odham Nation, the Gila River

Indian Community, and the Fort McDowell Yavapai

Nation.

Individuals can support the Memorial by purchasing personalized bricks for $150.00 each. These

bricks, which can have up to three lines of inscription, will be laid in a particular area of the Memorial.

You can donate or purchase a brick for the AIVMO, a 501c3 nonprofit, by calling 480-951-2910 or

going online at https://aivmoaz.org/.

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

Second Mesa Day School Hosts Reservation Wide Townhall Meeting to Address

the Proposed Hopi School System Slated to Begin July 1, 2023, contin...

Stakeholder completing survey online. Photo by: R. Laban

Chairman Nuvangyaoma Closing Remarks. Photo by: R. Laban HT

Panel Members Presenting at Townhall Meeting. Photo by: R. Laban

continued fr. pg 7.

schools as staff contracts and budgets need to be considered and completed and

noted that they are not totally against consolidation but that concerns and questions

have yet to be answered by the HBE.

Panel members also notified attendees the monumental task of bringing six schools

together. They described the efforts as being influenced by their concerns and to

achieve bringing this information before their constituents and to include them in the

process of creating a consolidated school system. Some described the achievement as

one the HBE could have been attempting but has not been fully successful during the

transition period.

Other topics of concern included the lack of a central office which has yet to be

set up, staffed with policies created and shared with stakeholders. One panel member mentioned that, “For two years they keep movin gdates for the modulars to be

acquired, set up and now we are looking at August and not July...”

It was pointed out that one school wasn’t present, however, the group presenting

was not given an exact reason for the non-attendance. One presenter, however, mentioned they were guessing it had to do with a Level III Sanction being instituted by the

BIE-DOI against that school, being Hopi Jr./Sr. High School.

Other concerns and topics continued around the impacts waivers might have on

the students, special education needs, transportation and post-Pandemic trauma the

students may experience.

It was expressed that thus far the topics of discussion had been about the adult

concerns but that “we need to focus on the students, the impacts on the families, staff

have not received salary scales...” The loss of local control of the schools was also an

impact that needed to be considered and that by going with a central school system,

it’s like reverting back to how BIE was running schools.

The FMES Board President reminded everyone that July 1, 2023 is “just fifty-one

days away” just before Deborah Baker emphasized why she and others have “chosen

to make a stand” by expressing,”...the need to focus on the students...so that they can

thrive academically, socially, critically, to mold our students into life-long learners...”

She then mentioned that the HBE issued a Factsheet and it “came out yesterday

and they are still working on policies and procedures...” She then asked the attendees,

“Where is your voice in this?”She emphasized that the group is not asking the efforts

to be stopped but rather paused for two years to allow more time to ensure a good

quality system is in place for the students, staff and communities overall.

The Q&A portion of the agenda continued and volunteers were gathering and presenting to Baker, who as the Facilitator noted that all questions and survey results will

be recorded and shared with the constituents.

Questions presented included such topics as curriculum, Employee concerns, SPED

services for students, why it took the schools two years to finally address their concerns in this manner, whether or not schools have held meetings about these topics,

has the HBE/Transition Team met with the schools, and who is the HBE. This list is

not exhaustive of all those asked and the panel did answer all questions that pertained

to the schools. Any questions which needed to be answered by the HBE were described as that.

Prior to turning the mic over for Closing Remarks, Baker encouraged those in attendance to contact the Hopi Tribal Council members in writing and by phone at the local

level. She also encouraged all to practice their civic duties in support of education by

staying in touch with County, State and U.S. representatives, as well.

Chairman Timothy Nuvangyaoma provided closing remarks by supporting Baker’s

statements about contacting Hopi Tribal Council members and acknowledged four

other Council members and Vice Chairman Andrews in the audience. Chairman also

supported what was mentioned about the HJSHS sanctions and mentioned having received correspondence about the issue. He reminded the audience to become

involved for the sake of the students and that Council members do not only represent

the Villages that elected or appointed them; they represent all the Hopi people. Chairman also suggested in order to get the Action Item presented, the group might inquire

about getting support from Council to get the item placed on the Tribal Council Agenda by way of suspending the rules, since July 1, 2023 is so near.

Attendees were thanked for the attendance and encouraged to contact their local

schools for more information.

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

For Native entrepreneurs by Native

entrepreneurs: Change Labs’ entrepreneurship hub prepares to open

its doors in Tuba City

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuba City, Ariz. — April 27, 2023 Change Labs is cutting

the ribbon on its 1,400-square-foot entrepreneurship hub and

coworking space in Tuba City. The hub is the first of its kind to

support business owners, creatives and self-employed entrepreneurs on the Navajo Nation.

The entrepreneurship hub will provide a permanent home

for Change Labs’ business workshops, coaching sessions and

incubation services. It also hosts a drop-in office for existing

and aspiring entrepreneurs to ask questions and seek help in

setting up and running a business on the reservation. The hub

facilities include free work desks, internet, a copy and scan

center, an event space, and a meeting room that users can book

for team, client and vendor meetings.

The hub is open to the public. Anyone living on, running a

business, or interested in starting a business on the reservation

will have access to the hub’s facilities and services, as well as

Change Labs’ trainings and workshops.

“The opening of our first entrepreneurship hub has been a

long time in the making and fills a deep and urgent need on

the reservation. Finally entrepreneurs, creatives, and makers have a space to gather, work, learn, meet their peers and

find support in making their ideas and visions a reality,” said

Change Labs co-founder and executive director, Heather

Fleming.

“The hub is a symbol of our intended permanency in the

community. By cutting the ribbon on this space, Change Labs

is saying that we are here as a Native resource led by Native

people for Native people,” said Change Labs co-founder, Jessica

Stago.

The new entrepreneurship hub was made possible by the

generous support of the Flora Family Foundation, the Kauffman Foundation, Common Future, the Reis Family Foundation and Grand Canyon Trust.

Meeting a community need

Change Labs identified the need for a shared resource center

based on common and recurring business challenges raised by

the entrepreneurs attending its entrepreneurial workshops and

events, which Change Labs has been hosting on the Navajo

Nation since 2014.

“The most common question we heard was about how to

navigate the business set up and regulatory process. The second most common question was about where business owners

could find a desk to work, or access a printer, or pick up a form

they needed,” said Fleming. “It was clear that what was needed

to address most of these issues was a one-stop shop where

people could work and ask for advice.”

The hub took five years to come to fruition. The journey to

reaching opening day reflects the myriad of the challenges that

many Indigenous entrepreneurs face in launching and running

their businesses, particularly with land permitting and leasing.

“The issue of land and space is one of the most persistent obstacles for our communities’ prosperity. For those who want to

establish and run a business or organization on the reservation,

it’s often difficult and time-consuming to find physical space,

then figure out what’s required and navigate bureaucracy,”

Stago said.

“We have such admiration for those who try, much less

succeed. It’s a testament to the incredible will, determination

and fortitude of the entrepreneurs in our community,” added

Fleming.

By anchoring resources locally, Change Labs’ vision for the

hub is to create a space that nurtures a sense of possibility and

opportunity of becoming an entrepreneur on the reservation.

The organization hopes community members will feel empowered to design businesses and organizations that embody Indigenous values and promote economic resilience and growth

by serving the Hopi and Navajo communities.

Government estimates have pegged unemployment on

the reservation at around 50%, noted Fleming. “We think a

big portion of that number may be sole-proprietors—food

vendors, artisans and jewelers who don’t think of themselves as

entrepreneurs. These are model Native entrepreneurs, because

they do it for the love of the craft or to feed their families,

not because they’re looking for an exit strategy or to amass a

fortune.”

“We know that entrepreneurship is built into the resiliency

of our community,” added Stago. “We also know that given the

right resources, Indigenous entrepreneurs will lead us into a

more positive future. In that way, the new hub represents our

past, our present, and our future.”

The grand opening of the Change Labs entrepreneurship

hub in Tuba City, Ariz. is on Friday, June 16, 2023 and starts at

10:00 a.m. MT. For more information, visit the Change Labs

website.

Hopi Tutuveni May 17, 2023

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.