Deon Ben is originally from the community of Tohatchi, New Mexico, and rejoined the Trust’s Native America Program in 2016. Prior to joining the Trust, Deon worked for the Grand Canyon National Park’s Vegetation Program. He earned his B.S. in environmental studies at Northern Arizona University and is currently completing his M.S. in environmental science and policy at NAU. Growing up on Navajo land, Deon experienced the perfect mesh of traditional knowledge and environmental education, which led him to his graduate work focusing on incorporating traditional ecological knowledge to address animal husbandry and grazing within tribal communities that are facing climate challenges. Deon enjoys the isolation and natural beauty of his traditional homeland and looks forward to positive environmental change.
All things share the same breath — the beast, the tree, the man…..the air shares its spirit with all the life it supports.
— Chief Seattle
The confirmation of Deb Haaland as secretary of the interior brings hope knowing a tribal woman is now the voice of the tribal people.
Read MoreWe caught up with Sunny Dooley at a recent gathering to hear her ideas on why it’s important for tribes to get together, escaping the “non-profit industrial complex,” and caring for bloated goats.
Read MoreFourteen contemporary Puebloans eliminated all pre-European contact foods, including sugar, alcohol, wheat, beef, chicken, and even chili.
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