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Julianne Hing

Navajo Nation Takes the Lead with Green Jobs Legislation

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Great news from Jeff Biggers at Common Dreams:

The bounty of green job dreams is one step toward becoming a reality on the Dinetah-Navajo Nation. Thanks to the indefatigable work of the Navajo Green Economy Coalition and Navajo Nation Speaker Lawrence T. Morgan, among many others, the Navajo Nation Council voted to create the Navajo Green Economy Commission on July 21st.

The legislation is historic: Reportedly the first green jobs bill among the First Nations, the Navajo Nation Green Economy Commission will create the infrastructure to qualify for federal money already earmarked for green job development, and focus on small-scale, community developments for a more sustainable and green economy.

The vote on Tuesday took place after a remarkable 14 month green march by green jobs advocates, after the original bill was tabled last spring.

"The passing of this legislation is monumental because it is a catalyst for economic development on the Navajo Nation with Navajo traditional values & community at it's core," says David Johns of the Dine' Haatali Association Vice-President (Navajo Medicine Men Association).

Posted at 9:42 AM, Jul 22, 2009 in Green Economy | Permalink | View Comments


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