If you were asked to name three facts about the Navajo Nation, would you have solid answers? If you don’t know what you would say, or have little knowledge of the Navajo people, you’re certainly not alone. The American education system doesn’t do a great job of addressing Native American history.
When my father began talking to me about a group of Navajo people that he met at a conference, I knew that I needed to learn more. Before I knew it, we were on a plane to Arizona!
Everything Has a Purpose
When I arrived on Navajo land, I had dinner with a few members of the Navajo family. Our hosts operate Black Streak Canyon Tours – which I would be taking the next day!
It was an enlightening evening- I learned so much about the customs, rituals, and spiritual system of this tribe.
The very first thing I noticed about the family was their beautiful, bright turquoise jewelry. Each of them was wearing this stunning, colored stone in some way- earrings, necklaces, bracelets etc.
I asked if that specific stone had any particular meaning and learned that every aspect of Navajo culture holds purpose and significance. This stone is worn as a reminder of protection from their Navajo Gods. How interesting!
A Self-Reliant People with Ties to the Earth
The Navajo people are a self-governed group, with more than 410,000 members nationwide. They have their own president, vice president, legislative, and judicial branches. They take pride in their self-reliance!
One of the overarching themes of Navajo culture is their connection with nature and the land. They are connected with the Earth from the time they are born, and many aspects of daily life have natural connections.
I learned that they get shampoo from the roots of the Yucca plant, take pride in their livestock like cattle and sheep, and even connect their births to the Earth by burying their umbilical cords!
Another interesting aspect of Navajo life is the role of women in their society. Women are the dominant figures in their homes and the ties between grandmothers, mothers and daughters run deep.
The Canyon Connection
Perhaps the coolest example of their connection with nature was evident during the canyon tour. Not only are the canyons absolutely gorgeous, but they are greatly valued by the members of the nation.
One of our tour guides began singing in the canyon. You could literally FEEL his voice moving through the crevasse and fluttering behind, beside, and in front of you!! It was a crazy, visceral feeling that truly demonstrates this natural connection.
Historical Representation
When I asked how the members of the tribe felt they were represented in history, they all simultaneously agreed that they have been portrayed inaccurately. They shared that they felt Americans only viewed Native Americans through a singular lens when there are many, many different and diverse tribes with diverse customs.
In fact, there are currently 574 federally recognized tribes in United States and 22 tribes in the State of Arizona. Can you name 5 different Native American Tribes off the top of your head?
This piqued my interest, and I wanted to know more.
I asked how they would like to be perceived, and they explained that they simply wanted to be understood and given an opportunity to share and celebrate their culture.
Cultural Tourism
This is where Black Streak Canyon Tours and the concept of “cultural tourism” come into play.
The Navajo people have blended the exploration of their own beautiful canyons with teachable moments, sharing their real culture and their real lives- not the lives many Americans wrongfully stereotype.
It’s a powerful opportunity to showcase this breathtaking land and the proud people living on it!
Lessons Learned
I learned so much during this trip- so much that I had never explored before. Most importantly, I once again learned that travel is truly essential to understanding the world around us and fighting stereotypes.
After reading this, you might now be able to give three facts about the Navajo nation, but you shouldn’t just stop there! Explore the rich heritage and unique culture of the Navajo yourself. Oh – and make sure to sing during your canyon tour!
Written by Molly Geissler.
