The Navajo Nation Council is calling on federal agencies to fully recognize and respect valid tribal identification during any Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations that affect Navajo citizens, particularly in urban areas where Navajo people live, work, and travel.
Speaker Crystalyne Curley said the Navajo Nation is gathering facts about reports of unlawful detainment of Navajo citizens and raised concerns about profiling based on appearance. Curley said the Navajo Nation expects federal agencies to honor tribal identification and uphold the government-to-government relationship with tribal nations.
The Council is urging Navajo citizens to carry valid identification while in public places, including a Navajo Nation identification card or a Real ID, to help prevent misidentification and wrongful detentions.
The Navajo Nation says it is communicating with federal and state officials, legal counsel, and other tribes to strengthen coordination, share information, and proactively address potential impacts of federal enforcement actions on tribal citizens.
Navajo citizens can call (855) 435-7672 if they encounter issues related to ICE operations or have questions or concerns. The Navajo Nation Council says it will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.
