'One Voice' - Supervisor Fowler unites Native community in Page

TUBA CITY, Ariz. - Lena Fowler, Coconino County Supervisor for District 5, has been working with Lola Riggs of the County Health Department and Lechee Chapter President Irene Whitekiller to bring together the Native American community in the city of Page.

This networking group has been named "One Voice," a testament to their goal of achieving unity and collaboration while collectively encouraging Native Americans to get involved in their community.

The first meeting was held on the evening of April 8 at the Vocational Education Center in LeChee. A dinner of mutton stew and frybread was served while pertinent community issues were discussed and general action plans outlined.

One main area of concern presented at the meeting was the need for more Native American leadership among the City Council, Chamber of Commerce, the Page School Board and the local businesses.

Supervisor Fowler states "Native Americans working together is not only better but essential. Working with others to solve problems takes more time but works in the long run."

Other discussion items included: Health disparities; education; economics and workforce development; chronic homelessness and the city's serial inebriate issue.

Supervisor Fowler noted that the first meeting had a fairly small turnout of approximately seven individuals, but she is hopeful that the group will grow as more people become aware of the meetings and recognize the importance of attending.

The group wants greater participation from the public and hopes to see a vast improvement in attendance at the upcoming meetings. Supervisor Fowler states that these meetings are more than just a venue to express complaints but that they are an opportunity to share information, resources and positive updates about accomplishments within the Page Native American community.

Supervisor Fowler says it is a time to not only plan ahead for future improvements but to also reflect and commend the achievements of community leaders thus far.

Supervisor Fowler would also like to note that she is especially interested in having strong youth representation in the group. She states that there are a lot of talented and motivated young people who want to see changes in their communities just as much as older generations.

She encourages all community members to come and share their perspective at the next discussion tomorrow (Thursday), June 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. (MST) at the Page Town House located at 601 South Navajo Drive. Navajo tacos will be served.

Those unable to attend the meeting can also talk to Supervisor Fowler during her regular office hours at the Page City Hall on the second Thursday of each month from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (MST). No agenda and no appointment is necessary.

Supervisor Fowler would also like to announce that she will be hosting the second Community Networking Meeting in Tuba City on Monday, June 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Boarding School Cafeteria. All organizations, offices, schools, businesses and interested individuals are invited to attend.

The purpose of the meeting is to facilitate communication and collaboration among all entities in the area. She asks that each representative bring business cards, brochures, newsletters and updates to share. This meeting will be the first of several throughout the year.

Supervisor Fowler is especially excited to share information about an Independence Day Community Picnic and Celebration in the works. She welcomes any input and assistance to ensure a fun and safe event for the upcoming holiday.

For more information call (928) 283-4518 or send an e-mail to lscott@coconino.az.gov.

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