A bill to create a human rights commission is on the agenda as the Navajo Nation Council returns to work this week.

Legislation 0719-06 is sponsored by delegate Ervin Keeswood. He cited past discrimination against Navajos as well as more recent race-related incidents in the border town of Farmington, New Mexico.

The five-member commission would hear complaints from tribal members. Some cases could be referred to authorities.

In related news, Navajo women have organized a march in Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation where the council meets. The group Women Against Racism say a staffer for President Joe Shirley Jr. made racial remarks about Navajos who are of mixed ancestry.

Get the Story:
Navajo Nation considers bill to create human rights commission (The Farmington Daily Times 10/16)
Women plan Window Rock march against racism (The Gallup Independent 10/14)

Relevant Links:
Navajo Nation - http://www.navajo.org
Navajo Nation Council - http://www.navajonationcouncil.org

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