Relations between Navajos and non-Navajos in Farmington have improved in the past 30 years but challenges remain, according to a recent report from the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

The New Mexico Advisory Committee visited Farmington in April 2004, 30 years after the murders of three Navajo men caused an uproar among Navajos, who attributed the deaths to racism. The Farmington Daily Times reported that white teenagers were often responsible for abusing Navajos on the streets.

But the climate has change since 1974, the committee's report said. Navajo leaders say officials in Farmington have taken steps to improve the city's relationship with the Navajo Nation and Navajo people.

The report also said the city still has a long way to go in terms of ensuring Navajos are fairly represented in the city government and are treated fairly in the justice system. Other issues, including mental health problems and predatory financial practices, aren't being addressed, the committee said.

Get the Story:
Building cultural bridges (The Farmington Daily Times 2/28)

Civil Rights Commission Report:
The Farmington Report: Civil Rights for Native Americans 30 Years Later (November 2005

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