For the past several years, there has been a great deal of contention over schools and universities using depictions of Native America characters as mascots.
On May 29, 2025 The Door Gallup Christian Church in Gallup, New Mexico presented a play that featured a character dressed as a Navajo Medicine Man who had violent acts aimed at him.
Videos of the play were shared on the social media network TikTok and have been viewed millions of times.
Members of the Navajo Naton rightfully were outraged over the performance.
The 25th Navajo Nation Council issued a statement on the incident:
“Council members, speaking on behalf of concerned community members, described the performance as a misrepresentation and mockery of sacred aspects of Navajo spirituality. The play has drawn widespread criticism from Navajo community members and interfaith leaders who view the portrayal as deeply disrespectful and culturally insensitive.”
In addition, Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley sent a letter to The Door Gallup Christian Church urging the church leadership to take responsibility and be accountable for the performance of the play saying, “we respect all faiths and beliefs. As neighbors to the Navajo Nation, the city of Gallup and surrounding communities share more than just geography with our people — we are connected by deep-rooted cultural and social ties. Mutual respect and understanding must be the foundation of our society, especially in a region that embraces diverse beliefs.”
Curley also noted that such freedom of expression “should never come at the cost of another people’s sacred traditions.”
Adding, “Navajo traditional practices are considered sacred by many of our people. They are integral to Navajo identity, history, and our way of life. Navajo medicine men are spiritual leaders and should never be made a mockery in such a violent manner.”
Curley urges respectful dialogue with the community…and some self-reflection, “we urge the church to consider the broader impacts of its actions and ensure that future engagement is grounded in mutual respect and cultural understanding.”
“We welcome the opportunity to meet, to listen, and to have meaningful conversations, but we will not tolerate disrespect toward Navajo traditions or any faith,” she said.
Feature photo from TikTok