Stewart L. Udall as a Champion for the Navajo Miners and 'Downwinders'
When
Panel discussion
America’s development of nuclear power during the Cold War left numerous victims, of which we are continuing to see the health consequences and dangers to untold thousands of unsuspecting people. Stewart L. Udall championed compensation for the victims of radiation and nuclear fallout.
After departing from public service in the early 1970s, Udall committed his life to rectifying the impact on the Navajo miners and the “Downwinders” who were affected by radioactive contamination from nuclear testing.
Panelists will discuss Stewart Udall’s work in this ongoing legal struggle and why it remains an important topic today.
Panel details
- Early registration is highly recommended. Register now.
- Free and open to the public.
- A reception with light refreshments will follow the panel at Special Collections across the U of A mall from the Modern Languages building.
- Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy the Trailblazer Exhibit during the reception.
- Presented by University of Arizona Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy and University Libraries Special Collections
Panelists
- Tom Udall, former U.S. Senator, New Mexico (2009-2021); U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa (2021-2025); Stewart Udall’s son
- Jonathan Nez, former Vice President (2015-2019) and President (2019-2023) of the Navajo Nation
- Moderator: Steve Hussman, Librarian and Curator for Political Affairs Collections, University Libraries Special Collections
Related exhibit
The Special Collections Trailblazer: Stewart L. Udall’s Environmental Leadership and Legacy Exhibit showcases papers, stories, and artifacts that highlight U.S. Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall’s myriad contributions to environmental leadership across the United States. It opens on Sept. 22, is free to the public, and available during Special Collections hours.