Visit from Navajo leaders
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The president of the Navajo Nation visited with Church leaders in Salt Lake City June 28 to discuss the challenges and opportunities that face his people.
Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly met in the First Presidency board room with President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency, and President Boyd K. Packer, president of the Quorum of the Twelve.
President Shelly was joined by First Lady Martha Shelly and a large contingent from the Navajo Nation and other Native American tribes.
Also in attendance at the meeting was Larry Echo Hawk, a member and the Assistant Secretary — Indian Affairs for the U.S. Department of the Interior.
President Thomas S. Monson was traveling outside Church headquarters and was unable to participate.
During the meeting, President Shelly discussed the concerns facing his people, including ongoing employment challenges, according to Elder Ben B. Banks, an emeritus Seventy and director of Church Hosting. The Navajo leader also spoke with the Brethren about principles of provident living and self-sufficiency.
President Shelly mentioned that he had visited the Church headquarters once before "as a young boy."
Elder Banks noted President Packer's long-established interest in the Navajo people.
After their meeting with President Eyring, President Uchtdorf and President Packer, the Native American contingent enjoyed a luncheon at Church headquarters.
During his visit to Salt Lake City, President Shelly also met with Brother Echo Hawk and state government leaders, including Utah Governor Gary Herbert.
