In January 2025, leaders from various Indigenous nations convened in Washington, D.C., to participate in the inauguration of Donald J. Trump. Among these leaders was Johnny Lehi Jr., Vice President of the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, who seized this pivotal moment to advocate for the tribe’s long-standing fight for water rights and land claims. For Lehi, this event was not merely a political occasion; it was a crucial opportunity to address the pressing issues affecting his people and to negotiate for a future that includes sustainable water rights and land recovery.
A Mission for Justice and Sustainability
Lehi participated in the inauguration with a clear mission: to secure a water rights settlement for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, which would grant approximately 5,400 acres of land near Tuba City and Navajo Mountain. “For us, the foundation of a land treaty is essential. It represents an unprecedented opportunity to establish our rights to the resources we depend on for our survival and cultural identity,” he stated. His dedication underscores the importance of land and water as not only physical necessities but also as essential elements of the tribe’s cultural and religious beliefs.
The Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act will be introduced to Congress early this year, and the tribe is confident that the legislation, which includes the ratification of the tribe’s land treaty, will move forward quickly. “Everyone is optimistic about the changes this administration might bring. Positivity is essential; if we maintain hope, we can influence outcomes for our community,” he reflected, highlighting the importance of sustainable belief in achieving their goals.
Building Relationships for Progress
Lehi’s attendance at the inauguration was a strategic move to strengthen the tribe’s advocacy efforts. “We’re here to work with the new presidency, just like anyone else present. Collaborating is vital to ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs addressed,” he emphasized. This approach is crucial for building meaningful partnerships that can propel the tribe’s concerns to the forefront of political discussions.
The San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe’s water rights and treaty lands have been a priority for decades, and Lehi remains steadfastly committed to bringing this need to light. “We are dedicated to following through with our water rights advocacy. With the change in administration, we have new opportunities to engage and negotiate for the land and resources we desperately need,” he stated, portraying an unwavering resolve that characterizes tribal leadership.
Resilience in Advocacy
The struggle for water rights among the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe is deeply rooted in history, marked by years of negotiation that reflect broader patterns of Indigenous rights movements across the United States. Lehi’s commitment to this cause represents an ongoing struggle for justice, resilience, and identity. “Everything begins with a foundation,” he remarked, underscoring the necessity of solidifying legal agreements that honor the socio-cultural fabric of the tribe.
Lehi’s journey to Washington was both personal and professional, driven by his responsibility to advocate for his community and uphold the legacy of the San Juan Southern Paiute people. His presence at the inauguration served as a rallying point for continued activism and a call to unity among Native nations.
A Call for Sovereignty
The context of Trump’s inauguration lent gravity to the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe’s pursuit of rights. As Trump spoke about America’s sovereignty and future prosperity, Indigenous perspectives highlighted the critical need for acknowledgment of treaties and the rights owed to Native nations. “Our fight is intertwined with the broader narrative of what it means to be American. We are a vital part of this nation’s story, and our rights must be honored,” Lehi affirmed, reinforcing the importance of self-determination and respect for Indigenous sovereignty.
Looking Ahead: A Unified Vision for the Future
As the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe carries forward its advocacy efforts, Johnny Lehi Jr.'s presence at the inauguration symbolizes a commitment to resilience and hope. The path to securing water rights and land claims may be fraught with challenges, but Lehi’s steadfast determination and the collective strength of the tribe provide a foundation upon which they can build a sustainable future. “Our work is about taking it back—recovering our rights, our land, and our identity,” he concluded, encapsulating the spirit of perseverance that guides the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe as they navigate the complexities of advocacy in this new era. With renewed energy and purpose, the tribe looks to the future, eager to effect change and build lasting partnerships in the ongoing journey for justice and recognition.
VIce President Johnny Lehi Jr.
