WOTN6

Material published in WOTN is covered by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, translated, or transmitted in any form or by any means now or hereafter known, electronic or mechanical, without permission in writing from the publisher, WOTN aka Women of the Navajo.

Special Appreciation to Native Designer for their assistance in the layout and design of this publication. (nativedesigner12@gmail.com)

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Former Navajo President Ben Shelly stands with newly elected Navajo Vice-President Jonathan Nez and President Russell Begaye.

Russell Begaye & Jonathan Nez sworn in as new Navajo leaders Photography by Lyonel Tso 8

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On May 12, former Navajo Nation Delegates Russell Begaye and Jonathan Nez took their oath of office as President and Vice President of the Navajo Nation. The event took place before a large crowd in Fort Defiance, Arizona.

The 2015 inauguration was attended by Navajo Nation tribal members, Navajo Delegates, local and regionally political dignitaries followed by a VIP dinner and meet and greet.

Many cheered when the new President spoke about “Awakening of a New Dawn”. Begaye also said that economic development will be one of his top priorities.

Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye making his inauguratal address.

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Fashion by: Navajo Spirit

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After taking a year off, the “Women of the Navajo” aka WOTN is returning with its 23rd edition. The calendar was first published in 1991 with only four models and has since grown into a popular calendar that fans look forward to each fall.

When auditions are announced, many young Navajo ladies from across the Navajo Nation turn out in hopes of becoming one of the twelve calendar girls. Each year, the average number of gals who audition is between 150-200. The calendar becomes available in September every year and as a gesture of appreciation to fans, WOTN distributes thousands of free promotional posters.

The “Women of the Navajo” Logo The logo reflects the diversity and beauty of young Navajo women today.

The circle’s opening is through which knowledge is gain from above. The face represents the innocence and curiosity of today’s youth. The jewelry represents modesty and pride while the different hair lengths and styles express their individuality.

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“It has been a life long dream ever since I saw my mother in calendars when she a model , and it would be a huge accomplishment for me.

I enjoy runnning, telling jokes and drawing” Shi-Fawn , 22 Lechee, AZ

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“I would like to show everyone my inner beauty. To share with everyone that beauty starts within yourself... I enjoy sports, horseback riding, cooking, baking, eating and traveling” Volanjayia, 20 Shiprock, NM

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“over the years, i have seen many beautiful women featured in the calendar, they represent the navajo nation in a positive way.

I feel that I could also contribute to the reputation of the calendar.

I enjoy doing makeup/hair , traveling, helping others, and playing basketball.

DeYonna, 19 Shiprock, NM

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“I have this opportunity to try out for the “women of the navajo”, I enjoy modeling and being a role model.

I enjoy working out, school, and fashion modeling” Cheyenne, 18 Gallup, NM

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“I’ve always been interested in being a “women of the Navajo” model to gain confidence and becoming a role model to others.

I’ve admired the women and their beauty. I enjoy spending time with my family and helping others” Mitawa 18 Shiprock, NM

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“I am proud of my navajo heritage and feel it would be an honor to represent them by being a part of the “Women of the navajo”.

I enjoy reading, hiking, drawing and spending time with my family and friends” Orlana, 19 Las Cruces, NM

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Lyonel is a modest and talented landscape photographer. While growing up in LeChee, Arizona on the Navajo Nation, he had access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southwest. As he grew older he knew how to respect nature and adore its beauty. This 2015 Arizona State University graduate with a degree in Secondary Education continues to add hiking into his busy life. He is a U.S. Marine veteran with three tours in support of Operation Iraqi/Enduring Freedom, hiker and camper, always in search of a new location to photograph. Like most dedicated photographers, he is up before the crack of dawn or waiting patiently for the “golden hour” to begin his work. Please allow him to take you into his colorful world.

All images are copyrighted • lyt33@hotmail.com

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WOTN AUDITIONS In order for Women of the Navajo to get produced, auditions are held in on and near the Navajo Nation. This past year, four auditions were held starting in Window Rock, AZ, on to Fountain Hills, AZ, Albuquerque, NM and ending at the Northen Edge Casino in Upper Fruitland, NM. On the day of the audition, potential calendar models fill out an application and interviewed by a WOTN staff member. The applications are later reviewed and twelve young ladies are eventually chosen. The selected girls are then professionally photographed for the calendar. Once the calendar is printed they meet the general public at various events around the reservation. Because of limited opportunities in the fashion and modeling industry for Native Americans, most pursue higher educational goals and degrees. Many young Navajo women today are taught by their families to embrace the future and but not to forget the past.

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Amber Mitchell • Melissa Peshlakai • Lacinda Christian

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