Where is navajo nation located

In years past, Navajoland often appeared to be little more than a desolate section of the Southwest, but it was only a matter of time before the Navajo Nation became known as a wealthy nation in a world of its own.

The discovery of oil on Navajoland in the early 's promoted the need for a more systematic form of government. In , a tribal government was established to help meet the increasing desires of American oil companies to lease Navajoland for exploration. Navajo government has evolved into the largest and most sophisticated form of American Indian government. See the Navajo Nation government in action as the 88 Council delegates representing Navajo Nation chapters, or communities discuss critical issues and enact legislation to determine the future of the Navajo people.

Reorganized in to form a three-branch system executive, legislative and judicial , the Navajos conduct what is considered to be the most sophisticated form of Indian government.

While the Council is in session, you'll likely hear delegates carry on the tradition of speaking in Navajo, providing a perfect example of how the Navajo Nation retains its valuable cultural heritage while forging ahead with modern progress.

Inside the circular Council Chambers, the walls are adorned with colorful murals that depict the history of the Navajo people and the Navajo way of life. For more info about tours, call or write to P. Box , Window Rock, AZ Monsoons concentrate most of the annual rainfall in July and August. Home Protocols Fact Sheet.

Explore Section. Fact Sheet. CLIMATE: The continental climate has cold winters, hot summers, and average annual precipitation ranging from less than 6 inches to more than 20 inches in the mountains. Upcoming Events:. Tuesday, Twin Arrows Casino Resort. Monday, Navajo Nation Reservation. Do not litter, burn debris, or bury trash. Please place refuse in trash containers. Notes to Visitors Visitors are welcomed with open arms in Navajoland, but don't forget that residents here-just like people in your hometown or any community- like to be treated with respect.

Cameras are not always welcome, and you should secure permission before photographing, videotaping, sketching or audiotape recording any event. When you do take photos, keep in mind that a gratuity is always appreciated. Special permits are required when photographing for commercial use.

Try to be unobtrusive when visiting a Navajo performance or event. Be patient and considerate- don't push to the front of a crowd or block anyone's view. Unless absolutely apparent that it is okay, do not applaud. Pow-wows and dances are sometimes exhibited for the benefit of the tourists in public forums.

Many of these events are of a religious nature and should be accorded the same deference as a church or prayer service, even if tribal members behave informally. Before attending an event or dance confirm that visitors are welcome. Remember that religious matters are very private and personal; probing questions are not appropriate.

Some traditional ceremonies are not open to the public, so if you are asked to leave, please do so quickly and quietly. When you are on Navajoland, you'll quickly notice how many people speak Navajo. But English is also spoken by the vast majority of Navajos, so do not hesitate to communicate.

If you encounter a Navajo who does not speak English, you should have no problem finding someone eager to interpret. Do not enter a home uninvited. Do not knock on a door and asked to be shown around. Do not throw objects, especially in or near Navajo sacred sites. Observe quiet hours from 11 p. The use of teepees on the Navajo Nation is strictly for religious purposes.

Please show respect and do not intrude. Other Resources nndfw. Sleep in a Navajo Hooghan. Traditionally, the Navajos are a matriarchal society, with descent and inheritance determined through one's mother. Navajo women have traditionally owned the bulk of resources and property, such as livestock. In cases of marital separation, women retained the property and children. In cases of maternal death children were sent to live with their mother's family. Traditional Navajo have a strong sense of family allegiance and obligation.

Today, Navajos are faced with large unemployment rates; and "acculturation" to a more nuclear family structure similar to Anglos in the U. As a culture in transition, the Navajo people and their traditional lifestyle is under the substantial stress brought about by rapid change in their society.

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