In many ways, the United States of America could be compared to the various mighty empires of the past.

The most prosperous empires of the past were often a combination of various tribes and backgrounds. The secret to their continued prosperity is that they were able to find unity in diversity. Empires that operated on a policy of oppression and viciously silenced those with different opinions never lasted.

Disagreement is inevitable in a society where people are from different backgrounds and cultures. However, when you know that your voice is not only heard but is given careful thought and consideration, it becomes easy to work around occasional conflict. It is sad to say that today, that is not the case with the United States and the Navajo Nation.

In 2001, Lezmond Charles Mitchell was convicted of the murders of two members of the Navajo Nation during a carjacking. Per the Major Crimes Act of 1885, Mitchell was charged in a US Court of Law, even though he was a Navajo Nation citizen. This shouldn't have happened without the permission and consent of the Navajo Nation.

Mitchell was sentenced to death and executed in August 2020. The execution was carried out despite the constant plea from the leaders of the Navajo Nation, who wanted the sentence to be reduced to life imprisonment without possibility of parole.

The fact that this happened shows a blatant disregard for the people of the Navajo Nation by the US Government. If nothing else, the Navajo Nation should have a relevant say in how their people are judged under US law. Failure to do this will only increase the growing rift between the US Government and the Navajo Nation. 

To take this away from them is tantamount to a declaration of war. There is room for compromise. However, the will and desire of the Navajo Nation cannot simply continue to be overridden so callously.

Let the Navajo Nation be more actively involved in how the US Law treats their people. This is simple and, more importantly, fair to all involved.