PHOENIX — Governor Katie Hobbs and Hopi Chairman Timothy Nuvangyaoma have announced a groundbreaking agreement that will transfer approximately 110,000 acres of Arizona state trust land to the Hopi Tribe. The agreement, a first of its kind, involves the State of Arizona, the United States, and the Hopi Tribe.
“After nearly three decades of the Hopi fighting for their rights, I’m proud to enter into this historic agreement,” Governor Hobbs said.
The land, located near Winslow, AZ, south of Interstate 40, fulfills part of the 1996 Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute Settlement Act, which allowed the Hopi Tribe to acquire private land and petition for neighboring state lands to be held in trust.
“Today is not only another historic day, but a day of celebration for the Hopi Tribe,” said Chairman Nuvangyaoma. “This moment coincides with our soyal’ang ceremony, a time of renewal and revitalization.”
The agreement marks a significant milestone in collaboration between state and tribal governments. Governor Hobbs, who visited the Hopi Reservation in September, emphasized her administration’s commitment to fostering partnerships with Arizona’s 22 tribal nations.
“This agreement ensures every Arizonan has a space to call home and thrive,” Hobbs said.
Chairman Nuvangyaoma expressed gratitude for the leadership and dedication of the Governor’s Office, the Arizona State Land Department, and federal agencies, including the Department of the Interior and Department of Justice.
The lands into trust agreement signifies a renewed commitment to addressing historical injustices and supporting the Hopi Tribe’s self-determination and growth.