In Gallup, New Mexico, Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer recently signed a tribal council resolution to provide $18.7 million in supplemental funding to help tribal enterprises deal with financial issues arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise by far will receive the largest allocation of $15 million. The remainder will be divided among the Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise, Navajo Nation Hospitality Enterprise and Navajo Nation Shopping Centers Inc. Leaders from these enterprises told tribal leaders they have lost revenue, could not meet certain financial obligations and were forced to reduce their workforce.
In a letter to Navajo Nation Speaker Seth Damon, Nez and Lizer wrote, “Our citizens also experienced adversity in providing for their families since many were laid off from their jobs or their hours were reduced. While we supported many employees, the enterprise employees were affected in greater numbers and now also deserve support.” They added, “Over the years our enterprises have supported the Navajo Nation through dividend payments and support of our students with scholarship contributions. Now we must work together to keep our nation moving forward.”
