The Navajo Nation’s President and Vice President sent a letter to the White House today requesting clemency for Lezmond Mitchell, the only Native American on federal death row. The government is planning to execute Mitchell on 8/26 against the wishes of the victims’ families.
“This request honors our 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.”
“The Navajo Nation and the family of the victims have not changed their position; the Navajo Nation has not opted-in for the death penalty and we strongly hold to our cultural, traditional, and religious beliefs that life is sacred.”
“Our decision, while clearly explained, was marginalized. We need to address this issue to move forward in our trust of our federal partners and to continue to work on the importance of protecting our People.”
Here is the full letter from Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer: 
