Albert Einstein once said, "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity." As a member of the Navajo Nation, I could not ignore the situation at Desert Rock.

I think we, the Diné, need to reevaluate the situation and the potential negative impacts that the Desert Rock project would bring to the area.

For some people, Diné or not, the issue of the Desert Rock project is probably irrelevant because they do not have to live next to it nor will it impact their lives significantly. For me, it hits close to home even though I live hundreds of miles away.

I support the courageous individuals who have risen to the challenge of speaking for those who do not fully understand the consequences and are being taken advantage of ("Longest Walkers declare opposition to Desert Rock," May 1, 2008).

Upon reading "Desert Rock coverup?" article (May 1, 2008), I could not help but question the logic and comments of Omar Bradley, BIA Navajo region director, and Frank Maisano, Sithe spokesperson.

Mr. Bradley was "shocked" at the lawsuit placed against him by Diné CARE and the San Juan Citizens Alliance regarding the withholding of certain documents, not to mention that the documents that were released had parts "redacted - blacked out."

Any reasonable and sane individual would see red flags on any "blacked-out" legal documents. Given his position in the federal government, this is probably normal procedure for him, but it is not for us and we will not accept this.

Diné CARE and the San Juan Citizens Alliance are reasonably justified in demanding more information from all involved parties because this is not some trivial issue that can be decided upon behind closed doors. If harmful effects are below tolerable levels and the project is "safe," why hide information? Furthermore, why did they seek a remote location for the site?

Bradley and Maisano seem oblivious and indifferent to the legitimate and logical concerns posited by concerned parties and the people living in the area. In fact, Mr. Maisano regards these concerns as mere delaying "tactics...(that) hurt the Navajo workers and the Navajo people who stand to benefit."

Honestly, what are the benefits of planting a potential environmental disaster in the midst of our people? Sure, it will provide jobs and some revenue, but does the promise of short-term economic potential outweigh the long-term threats that would be posed upon our people, our environment and our future?

At what point do we let materialistic ideals take precedence over human life? Keep in mind that, although money may bring instant rewards and perhaps, improve a few lives, nuclear hazards last for hundreds of years and does not discriminate.

I feel we are being coerced into a risky venture where only one side benefits and it is definitely not the Navajo Nation. We should not let Western ideals dictate what is best for our people or our culture. We already know these things and that is why we have endured for so long.

We care about the land which sustains us and, most importantly, we care about our people and our future generations. I believe in improving our current conditions on the reservation but it should not be at the great expense of others, especially if it is detrimental to human life.

Richard Nelson
Portland, Ore.
(Hometown: Mexican Water, Ariz.)