The Hopi Tribe
Media Release
October 11, 1996
Statement by Hopi Tribal Chairman, Ferrell Secakuku
"For many years, life has been difficult for the Hopi Tribe and for the
Navajo families who live on the Hopi Partitioned Land (HPL). Disagreements
between the Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation have resulted in many hardships and
uncertainties. Even then, many Hopi and Navajo families have shared
friendships and have been good neighbors to each other for generations.
"The Navajo/Hopi Settlement Act will bring peace to this troubled land. It
allows the Hopi Tribe the 75-year lease authority the Tribe needs to enter
into the lease accommodation with the Navajo families.
"This lease offers an opportunity for the Navajo families who wish to stay
on Hopi land to do so. The lease makes it clear that the Hopi will treat
the Navajo families fairly. The lease gives the Navajo families a clear
understanding about their rights if they choose to stay. The lease also
recognizes the duty of the Navajo Nation to care for its people who live
under Hopi jurisdiction on the HPL. Further, the lease recognizes that this
land belongs to the Hopi as attested to by former Navajo Nation President
Zah, and current Navajo Nation President Hale. And, finally, this is not an
agreement for a land exchange.
"In the past the Hopi have welcomed people from other tribes to their land
if those people are willing to abide by Hopi laws. Those people have stayed
a long time. If the Navajo families living on the HPL abide by the Hopi
laws, this lease shall bring peace and provide a way for our families to
live together on this land in harmony."