WASHINGTON, D.C. July 2, 2025 — The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) supports the Navajo Nation in responding to the fast-moving Oak Ridge Fire, which has forced evacuations in the areas of Hunters Point, Oak Springs, St. Michaels, and Fort Defiance. NCAI urges an immediate government response that assists the Navajo Nation and the residents of the area through the federal trust and treaty responsibility to Tribal Nations and their homelands. We also extend heartfelt gratitude to the firefighters, first responders, and volunteers who are risking their lives to safeguard families, livestock, property, and sacred landscapes.

“Protecting life, land, and culture is the bedrock of the trust responsibility,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “We call on the Administration to deploy every resource—ground crews, aviation assets, and disaster funds—at the speed this emergency demands.”

“Indian Country is on the front lines of a changing climate,” added NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr. “The Navajo Nation, like so many other Tribal Nations, faces this crisis with courage. Now the federal family must match that courage with action—today and over the long term.”

NCAI encourages residents of the affected areas to monitor Navajo Nation emergency alerts, comply with evacuation orders, and observe all Stage 2 fire restrictions and fireworks bans, as the tribal, federal, and state partners work to combat the flames. NCAI will monitor developments along with the Navajo Nation until every evacuee returns home safely and long-term recovery efforts are secured.