Guest column: We need more Native American representation in oral health care

As the executive director of the Hopi Foundation, Monica Nuvamsa’s day job keeps her busy in service to her community. But in her free time, she’s looking to invest in her art. Working in pen, ink, paints, and textiles, and inspired by her culture and heritage, Nuvamsa prints her designs on chiffon scarves, jigsaw puzzles, and more.

“The Supreme Court needs to honor our treaty rights and honor Navajo people," Nygren said. "Our leaders and their leaders agreed that both nations wanted to be prosperous. We all want to develop, we all want what’s best for our children, whether you’re the United States government or Navajo Nation, you want what’s best for your kids.”

While the current health and economic crisis has impacted Americans nationwide, it has disproportionately affected the Native American/Alaska Native (NA/AN) community.

In 2013, Bob Thorpe and other Representatives sued our State opposing the State Congress passing and Gov. Brewer (R) signing expansion of Medicaid that benefits lower-middle income people by using Federal funds.

I remember the first time I visited the Grand Canyon, and the first time I showed it to my granddaughter. Anyone who has been lucky enough to visit this natural wonder can see that it is truly a national treasure.