The Navajo Nation’s “NiÅ‚ch’ Éà Bee ÃÃná – Air is Life Act” of 2021, which prohibits using commercial tobacco products in enclosed and indoor areas, takes effect on Saturday.
The Tribe operates four casinos – Fire Rock, Flowing Water, and Northern Edge in New Mexico and Twin Arrows in Arizona – all of which will become smoke-free as a part of the act.
“After years of working towards this day, we celebrate this victory for the health of Navajo people,” said Dr. Patricia Nez Henderson, a member of the Air is Life Coalition. “We are grateful to President Nez and the Navajo Nation Council for their leadership to protect workers and guests from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.”
The Air is Life Coalition has been working collaboratively for over 13 years to educate the public on the dangers and risks of secondhand smoke and assisted the Navajo Nation in establishing this comprehensive smoke-free bill. The act was passed following a 20-3 vote in October 2021 by the Navajo Nation Council.
“The implementation of smokefree casinos is a significant milestone that continues a trend of Tribal casinos adopting smokefree indoor air policies,” said Cynthia Hallett, President and CEO of Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights. “We congratulate the leadership of the sovereign Navajo Nation for taking this step toward healthy outcomes for all Navajo people, especially those who work in casinos.”
In 2021, the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise casinos reopened with COVID-19 safety protocols in place, including smokefree indoor policies. While advocates welcomed these temporary measures, the decision to permanently go smokefree in the four tribal casinos managed by the Navajo Nation as well as in other public spaces is a major milestone.
In a statement issued by Navajo Nation, President Nez said, “The Air is Life Act is a monumental achievement and bold step in the right direction to promote healthy living among our Navajo people. Secondhand smoke can cause health issues among nonsmokers, such as children and elders. Public health professionals have concluded that the only way to protect nonsmokers and vulnerable populations from secondhand smoke is to require smoke-free workplaces and public places. It is a fundamental right to protect our Navajo people’s right to breathe clean air.”
