Law | National

Navajo man heads up Native American Homelessness Task Force

Friday, August 29, 2014

Sherrick Roanhorse

Sherrick Roanhorse, a member of the Navajo Nation, will lead the Native American Homelessness Task Force for the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Roanhorse, a former chief of staff to Navajo President Ben Shelly, was named chairman of the new group on Thursday. It was formed to address homelessness among Native Americans in New Mexico's most populous city.

"I look forward to partnering with the city of Albuquerque, community stakeholders, and New Mexico's tribes, nations, and pueblos to explore and identify meaningful solutions that enhance the quality of life for Native Americans living in our great city," Roanhorse said in a press release, KOB reported.

Mayor Richard Berry created the task force following the brutal murders of two Navajo men who were living on the streets of Albuquerque. The incident has shone a light on the harassment, violence, crime and discrimination faced by Native Americans who are homeless.

Native Americans make up about 4.6 percent of the Albuquerque's population and the city is close to several reservations, including a Navajo community that's detached from the main reservation. Homeless Native Americans tend to remain on the streets for longer periods and tend to be hospitalized and attacked more often, according to a city report.

Overall, some 13 percent of the Native population in Albuquerque struggles with homelessness, the city's report said.

Get the Story:
Sherrick Roanhorse appointed to head Native American Homelessness Task Force (KOB 8/28)
Taskforce for the homeless names leader (KRQE 8/28)