The Navajo Nation is mourning the loss of Rex Lee Jim, a revered former Vice President, who passed away in Albuquerque at the age of 63. While the cause of death has not been disclosed, his impactful legacy is evident through his multifaceted career.
Rex Lee Jim, a man of many talents, served his community as a medicine man, educator, writer, diplomat, and politician. His contributions to Navajo education and international diplomacy for Indigenous Nations are widely recognized. Navajo Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley highlighted his enduring influence, saying, “Among his great achievements, he leaves behind a legacy of strengthening Navajo education and furthering diplomacy for Indigenous Nations internationally.”
Navajo President Buu Nygren also expressed admiration for Jim, noting, “Rex Lee Jim’s life was one of service, wisdom, and compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire our Nation for generations.”
Born in Rock Point near the Four Corners region, Jim’s life was deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. He held a position on the Navajo Nation Council and served as vice president during President Ben Shelley’s tenure.
Beyond his political endeavors, Jim was a staunch advocate for reclaiming stolen ceremonial items. In 2014, he led a mission to Paris to retrieve sacred objects that were being auctioned. “They are not art objects to be hung on walls. We, as a people, have a collective right to them,” Jim told KNAU during the acquisition.
Jim’s passion for cultural preservation extended to his literary pursuits, where he was known for translating poems from Diné to English, emphasizing the depth of concepts over mere words. His poetry was a reflection of his commitment to exploring the Diné language while honoring traditional roots. In an interview on KNAU’s Poetry Friday series, Jim remarked, “In Navajo, we really don’t distinguish poetry, plays, storytelling. And we have always been listening to stories most of our lives.”
Jim’s literary contributions include three books published in Diné, English, and Spanish. He was also actively involved with the Carter Foundation, working to improve relations with Indigenous communities in the Andes region of South America, visiting countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador.
His advocacy work extended to the international stage, contributing to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Jim was also one of many candidates who sought the Navajo presidency in 2018, though he did not advance past the primary election.
Rex Lee Jim’s life and work continue to resonate with those who knew him, leaving a profound impact on the Navajo Nation and beyond.
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