University of Arizona Hosts ‘Navajo Boy’ Screening
The University of Arizona hosted a 25th anniversary screening of “The Return of Navajo Boy,” highlighting Diné family history and the lasting impact of uranium mining in Monument Valley.
Jeff Spitz and several members of the Cly-Begay family spoke about the legacy of "The Return of Navajo Boy" documentary during a Feb. 15 event.
Ian Stash / Tucson Spotlight
Family members, researchers and students filled a University of Arizona auditorium in February to mark 25 years since “The Return of Navajo Boy” first documented a Diné family’s story and the ongoing toll of uranium mining in Monument Valley.
Prior to the screening, director Jeff Spitz shared his experience making the film, describing his love of vintage photos and how he integrated them with stories family members told as they reflected on what the images captured.
“As an outsider, what I learned that is most valuable is something you don’t get to learn in school, it cannot be shown,” he said.