Enei Begaye

Enei Begaye is a prominent activist and advocate for Indigenous peoples’ rights and environmental justice, representing the Diné (Navajo) and Tohono O’odham nations. With a strong background in grassroots organizing, she has dedicated her career to addressing the exploitation of natural resources in Indigenous communities. As a co-founder and active board member of the Black Mesa Water Coalition, Enei works tirelessly to confront energy and water issues affecting the Navajo and Hopi Reservations, advocating for sustainable practices and community empowerment.

In addition to her role at the Black Mesa Water Coalition, Enei co-founded the Native Movement Collective, a nonprofit focused on strengthening community ties and fostering positive relationships among diverse populations. Through her work with the Indigenous Environmental Network, she collaborates with Indigenous communities across the U.S. to safeguard water resources and promote environmental stewardship. Her activism emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern, non-polluting technologies, advocating for a harmonious relationship with Mother Earth.

Enei’s vision for a sustainable future reflects her belief that Indigenous practices can guide contemporary environmental efforts. She states, “A green economy is nothing new to Indigenous peoples,” highlighting the long-standing connection between Indigenous cultures and ecological sustainability. Her initiatives aim to unite traditional methods, such as weaving and farming, with renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

Recognized for her contributions, Enei has received multiple awards, including Arizona’s Native American “Woman of Our Community” Award and the “Water Guardian” Award from Southwest organizations. Her impactful work has also earned her a spot among Utne Reader’s “50 Visionaries Who are Changing Your World.”