Indigenous Voices of the Colorado Plateau

History

Beulah Melvin Allen, M.D. was the first Miss Navajo crowned during the Navajo Nation Fair in 1952. The selection process was simple. Contestants vying for the title would stand in front of the audience of approximately 10,000 people. The one who received the loudest applause would be crowned Miss Navajo.

For about five years, there were two contests: one for Miss Navajo and one for Miss Modern Navajo. Miss Navajo would represent the traditional Navajo ways of life, and Miss Modern Navajo would represent the modern ways of life.

Eventually the Miss Navajo Nation Pageant replaced the applause competition. This current competition encompasses both the Navajo and Modern way of life in traditional and contemporary skills, with talent competitions lasting several days. During the pageant competition, contestants demonstrate many beautiful traditional skills and talents. The most important qualification for the Miss Navajo Nation pageant contestants is to be fluent in Navajo and English languages. The contestants must also possess knowledge of the Navajo culture and tradition. Unlike most beauty pageants throughout the world, the Miss Navajo Nation pageant is of beauty found within oneself, instead of judging outward appearance only.

Mission Statement

In keeping with Navajo culture and tradition, the role of Miss Navajo Nation is to exemplify the essence and characters of First Woman, White Shell Woman and Changing Woman and to display leadership as the Goodwill Ambassador. Miss Navajo Nation represents womanhood and fulfills the role of "grandmother, mother, aunt, and sister" to the Navajo people; therefore she can speak as a leader, teacher, counselor, advisor and friend. In March 1999, the Branch Chiefs of the Navajo government agreed that tone of the fundamental principals of the Navajo government should be the preservation of the Navajo culture. It shall be the mission of the Office of Miss Navajo Nation to encourage every Navajo to assist in the preservation of Navajo culture and Miss Navajo Nation will represent the importance of Navajo women with respect and honor.

Duties and responsibilities

1. To the best of her ability, represent the Navajo Nation as a goodwill Ambassador by educating the general public on the history, tradition, and culture of the Navajo people. The purpose and intent of the Goodwill Ambassadorship is to enhance the reputation of the Navajo nation and increase the number of patronage on the Navajo Nation; and

2. Participate in fund-raising activities for the Office of Miss Navajo and other charitable organizations at the choosing of Miss Navajo Nation to enhance the reputation of an increase the number of patronage on the Navajo Nation; and

3. Participate in other activities as authorized by the Office of the President and Vice President in accordance with Navajo Nation policies and ethics laws.

List of former Miss Navajo Nation

Miss Navajo Nation website