Losing Focus?
Inauguration plans expose some delegate's disapproval

By John Christian Hopkins
Diné Bureau

WINDOW ROCK — There will be 5,000 bottles of water, 1,500 seats for VIPs during the Jan. 9 inauguration ceremonies but the number of happy delegates is debateable.

"I hope you don't overdo it, don't mess it up this year for us," said Delegate Jerry Freddie. The focus should be on the people being sworn into office, not all the extra activities going on, Freddie said.

The inauguration which includes the president and vice president should be conducted in a proper, professional manner, said Delegate Leonard Chee.

"The campaign is over. Now it's time to focus on the government and what we hope to do," Chee said.

Plans are nearing completion; and, so far, could include a powwow at the Window Rock Fairgrounds, a possible gospel event at the Din Education Center, a gourd dance, winter storytelling and shoe games.

There will be special dinners for the election victors and a dance for the delegates at the Best Western in Gallup.

That peeved Delegate Ervin Keeswood Sr. He asked why, with everyone talking about keeping Navajo money on the reservation, are activities being planned off of it.

"We could take the oath right here, in the chambers, and then go to work," Keeswood said. "It's too extravagant."

Chief Justice Herb Yazzie will give the oath to the new delegates at noon on Jan. 9. Following lunch, the delegates will be called to session at 2:30 p.m. to elect a new speaker.

One question looming is whether 88 delegates will be sworn in or only 87.

The race to represent Pueblo Pintado, Torreon and Whitehorse Lake chapters is still undecided. Delegate LaVern Wagner, who lost her seat in the Nov. 7 election, has filed a grievance against delegate-elect Leonard Tsosie; she argues that Navajo law forbids a delegate from holding another elected position in state or federal government.

Tsosie, a New Mexico state senator, counters by noting that under Fundemental Law, Din are free to elect whomever they want to represent them.

The Office of Hearings and Appeals has heard the arguments and is expected to announce a decision Jan. 3. If the matter is resolved then, Tsosie if victorious would be allowed to take the oath Jan. 9. However, if the losing side appeals the OHA decision to the Navajo Supreme Court, Tsosie would not be eligible to be sworn in.

Some delegates are disappointed in the inauguration plans, so far.

"It seems like it's all about the president and vice president taking office," said Delegate Johnny Naize. "The council is in the back seat."

Delegate Lawrence Platero was concerned about the condition of the fairgrounds. He said it could create problems for the elderly and handicapped to get around.

Whatever plans are finalized, the elderly must be kept in mind, said Delegate Larry Noble.

"This is for them," Noble added.

John Christian Hopkins can be reached at hopkins1960@hotmail.com or by calling 505-371-5443.