Lucy A. Willie
Lucy
A. Willie was Navajo, and an elder in her community on the Navajo Nation in Burnham, NM. I first
met Lucy in November of 2004.
Stories of health problems, social justice issues regarding mining
rights, desecration of ceremonial and burial sites, with the losses of grazing
permits and homes had drawn my attention to the area. For 12 years I documented birth, death, joy, and
sorrow in the Willie family. I viewed, experienced, and photographed a way of life, which is quickly
vanishing in America.
Lucy
took me into her family. Taught me the Navajo way. Called me her
younger brother. Made me the uncle of her daughter and granddaughter.
Showed me how to herd her sheep with the dogs. We cooked fry bread.
Laughed and cried as one. Traveled untold miles together over the
reservation working to bring social and environmental issues to light.
Lucy never stopped believing in the truth. She stood tall and strong
for her family, community, and country.
Lucy
completed her journey on Mother Earth on Saturday July 14, 2018 at 7:20
am. She co-founded Dooda Desert Rock. Her peaceful spirit and strong
resistance to wrong brought positive changes for all future generations.
Thank
you sister. It was an honor far beyond words to know you, work with
you, and be called your younger brother. May your journey ahead be
filled with peace and joy. I will always remember your gentle smile and
the lessons you taught me.
be strong, be safe, Talon
