Native America Calling

Monday, August 17, 2020 – Sovereignty and the death penalty

The Navajo Nation is asking President Trump to halt the execution of Lezmond Mitchell, scheduled for Aug. 26. He is the only enrolled citizen on federal death row. The federal government resumed executions in July after an almost two-decade suspension. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez issued a statement, saying the request is based on “religious and traditional beliefs, the Navajo Nation’s long-standing position on the death penalty for Native Americans, and our respect for the decision of the victim’s family.” Ignoring the Navajo Nation’s request could set a precedent that undermines the long-standing ability for tribes to weigh in on crimes that warrant the death penalty committed by tribal citizens on tribal land.