The Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) is honoring a historic milestone this year with the 80th Anniversary of the Hopi and Navajo Migration to what is now known as the CRIT Reservation. The celebration not only commemorates the journey of the Hopi and Navajo people in 1945 but also reflects on the cultural richness and resilience they brought with them, shaping CRIT as we know it today.

In 1945, following World War II, the Bureau of Indian Affairs initiated a relocation project that brought both Hopi and Navajo families from northern and northeastern Arizona to the CRIT Reservation. They joined the Mohave and Chemehuevi people already living on the land, forming what is now a unique and diverse community of four distinct tribal groups. For the Hopi, this migration continued their long tradition of settled village life. Known for their deep connection to religion and ceremony, the Hopi brought their agricultural expertise in dry farming as well as their renowned artistry — pottery, overlay jewelry, and kachina doll carving. The Navajo, also part of this relocation, carried with them strong traditions of craftsmanship and resilience. They were celebrated silversmiths, a skill believed to have been introduced by Spaniards, and Navajo women were widely known for their weaving of colorful intricate rugs. (more…)

The Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) was buzzing with energy as the CRIT Special Diabetes Project-Recreation Program partnered with the Phoenix Suns/Mercury Foundation and the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona to host the ORIGINATIV Youth Basketball Clinic. The event brought together tribal youth, culture, and community spirit for an unforgettable weekend of basketball, wellness, and celebration.

Festivities tipped off Friday evening at Irataba Hall with a special clinic for the younger CRIT youth. On Saturday, the action expanded to Parker High School, where more than 180 youth from surrounding river tribes—including CRIT, Fort Mojave, Hualapai, Quechan, Cocopah, and Havasupai—hit the courts to learn new skills, build teamwork, and connect through basketball.

This two-day event was a celebration of unity among tribes, culture, and healthy living—echoing the importance of staying active and supporting the next generation.

Saturday’s opening ceremony brought together tradition and excitement. Mr. Willy Tahbo opened with a blessing, setting the tone of gratitude and respect. The Ase’Smaav Bird Singers and the River Tribes United Dance Group then filled the gym with song and movement, reminding everyone of the importance of cultural roots alongside athletic achievement. Youth and community members cheered as dancers performed in traditional dress, blending the energy of the game with the beauty of heritage. (more…)

On August 25, 2025, Senior DOI officials including, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Water and Science, Scott Cameron, and Acting Commissioner of Reclamation David Palumbo, made a significant visit the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) Reservation. He was welcomed by Chairwoman Amelia Flores, Tribal Secretary Josephine Tahbo, Treasurer Anisa Patch, and Council members Bill Beeson, Tommy Drennan, Raeanne Patch, and Tracey Quillen.

Cameron and Palumbo were guided through the reservation by Realty Director Herman Laffoon and Water Resource Director Dillon Esquerra. The tour highlighted the importance of CRIT’s lands and waters, beginning at Headgate Rock Dam and extending across the valley’s farmlands and irrigation canals. Along the way, they were shown the green, thriving fields sustained by the Colorado River, offering a firsthand look at the deep connection between the river and the Tribe’s lifeways.

The visit reinforces the critical role CRIT plays in the stewardship of the Colorado River. By showcasing the Tribe’s sustainable use of the river, CRIT emphasized the importance of protecting this vital resource, building trust, and strengthening government-to-government relationships. The tour also provided a space to discuss CRIT’s rights, responsibilities, and ongoing efforts to conserve, restore, and manage the river system for future generations.

Councilman Tommy Drennan shared that CRIT’s presence in conversations about water is vital and that highlighting these efforts ensures the Tribe remains a central part of shaping the river’s future. “I hope the presence of CRIT is always a part of the solution,” said Drennan. (more…)