State-Corporate Crime on the Navajo Nation: Human Consumption of Contaminated Waters

Abstract

History is always written from the point of view of the conqueror. This article is written from the point of view of an environmentally conquered people on one area of the Navajo Nation. As is the case with many other Native American nations, the Navajo are on the frontline of contemporary colonial struggles. They are sitting on resources the rest of the world wants at the lowest possible cost. Their territories are considered lands that are un-owned, underutilized, and therefore, open to exploitation. This is a scholarly article, written in a journalistic style based my visits to the Navajo Reservation, talking with those who live there and experience first-hand how coal production, and uranium mining has caused life-threatening pollution, massive habitat death and destruction to the people and their way of life. I have visited the Navajo Nation a number of times, and have gathered information from attending Chapter House meetings, and interacting with the people living in the contaminated area. Therefore, this article is not intended to present all sides of the issue, or to include all areas affected by the Bennett Freeze. This article is intended to bring to light information and awareness, based on my field observations, of the suffering endured by Navajo people occupying a particular area of the reservation that has not been a part of public conversation.