Staff Reports
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Crystalyne Curley, Speaker of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, formally announced her candidacy for President of the Navajo Nation April 23.
Curley is Tsenjikini and born for To’aheedliinii. Her maternal grandfather is Kinyaa’aanii and her paternal grandfather is Dził t’aadi Kinyaa’áanii. She is a mother and a wife, who was raised in the rural community of Fish Point within the Tselani/Cottowood Chapter in Arizona.
She is fluent in the Navajo and English languages. Curley earned two bachelor’s degrees from Arizona State University and a master’s in public administration from the University of New Mexico.
In her announcement, Curley spoke of her upbringing in a close-knit family where faith, prayer, and the Diné way of life shaped her values. Guided by her grandfather and supported by her family’s spiritual foundation, Curley emphasized that these teachings continue to guide her leadership today.
“This was not a decision I made lightly,” Curley said. “It came after much prayer, reflection, and conversations with my family, my community, and many of you across our Nation. I am grateful and humbled by your support.”
Since being elected Speaker in 2023, Curley has worked with Council members, chapters, and many stakeholders on efforts to address critical issues such as water rights, uranium contamination, elder services, youth engagement, and protecting voting rights. She sponsored historic legislation that gained unanimous approval from the Navajo Nation Council for three separate water rights settlements in Arizona and New Mexico.
“Serving as Speaker has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life,” she said. “I have seen what is possible when we come together, listen to one another, and stay focused on solutions.”
She highlighted three key commitments including a government that listens and includes the people, ensuring accessibility, stronger communities and essential services, including water security, infrastructure, and support for elders, youth, and families. Additionally, leadership that stands strong for Navajo sovereignty, advocating for the Nation’s rights at the federal and state levels and protecting its people.
Curley described her campaign as a collective effort, and invited Navajo citizens to take part in shaping the Nation’s future.
“This campaign is about bringing our people home, creating more opportunity, and uplifting who we are as Diné,” she said. “I invite you to be part of this journey and ask for your support in the upcoming election.”
Her previous professional experience includes serving as a policy analyst with Diné College and the Office of Navajo Government Development. She also served as a Legislative District Assistant, and Senior Public Information Officer for the Office of the Speaker and the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President before being elected to the Navajo Nation Council in November 2022, representing the communities of Tachee/Blue Gap, Many Farms, Nazlini, Tselani/Cottonwood, and Low Mountain. She served as Miss Navajo Nation, Miss Gallup Indian Ceremonial, and was previously elected to serve as a school board member.
