On Wednesday, at the United Nations Headquarters, Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye and Navajo Nation Ambassador Dr. Peterson Zah advocated for the participation of Indigenous Peoples in the UN.
The purpose of the consultation was to formulate and clarify elements that would enable the participation of Indigenous Governing Institutions at the UN. The day’s discussion focused on two areas: Venue for enhanced Indigenous People’s Participation and Modalities for Participation.
Begaye met with the United States delegation to convey what the Navajo Nation seeks in participation. The president said the Navajo Nation is requesting a seat at the UN to participate in any discussion that impacts the Nation.
The Nation will continue to pursue input through the UN on issues that impact water rights, natural resources, and legal jurisdiction among many other areas, he said.
President Begaye said, “We can no longer be an isolated nation within the U.S. We need to have our voices heard on a global level to affect change through international law that impacts indigenous peoples all over the world.”
Many indigenous representatives advocated for their participation in all General Assembly (GA) meetings as well as meetings of the Human Rights Council, the Economic and Social Council, UN Programs and Treaty monitoring bodies.