In a move that underscores the gravity of mental health issues within the Navajo Nation, President Buu Nygren designated September as Navajo Nation Recovery and Suicide Prevention Month. This announcement was made during the 76th Annual Navajo Nation fair, within the walls of the Dean C. Jackson Memorial Arena. There, before a gathering that represents a tapestry of Diné life, President Nygren emphasized the intrinsic value of every individual, declaring, "Each of you is special and loved," according to the Office of the President and Vice President of the Navajo Nation.

The president's remarks come against a backdrop of startling statistics. The Navajo Nation Mortality Report positions suicide as the eight leading cause of death for Navajos between 2015 and 2017. The updated figures in the 2020 report, drawing from data across Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, bring to light risk factors such as mental health issues, feelings of alienation, alcohol abuse, and the lingering shadows of physical and sexual abuse.

Nygren took the opportunity to sign the suicide awareness proclamation in a ceremonious prelude to the rodeo events and the night's entertainment, presented by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. The day was also declared Navajo Department of Health Day, underlining the ongoing efforts to bolster the health and resilience of the Diné people.

Reiterating this sentiment of hope and resilience was Sherylene Yazzie, the executive director for the Navajo Department of Health. "We are here to remind you that you are special. You are unique. You are important. You are a Five-Fingered Holy Being," Yazzie told the audience, as reported by the Office of the President and Vice President. She continued, "You come from a long line of resilient warriors. You are Diné and we are happy that you are here with us today." This commemoration and affirmations of identity form part of a broader initiative to address critical public health concerns within the Navajo Nation.