The untimely passing of Roy Wiegand on July 29, 2021, has left a profound impact on many. Struck by a pickup vehicle while riding his bicycle, Roy sustained serious injuries and, despite immediate medical intervention, sadly did not survive. A dedicated advocate of the Navajo Water Project, Roy’s month-long bike ride across 2,500 miles underscored his unwavering commitment to bringing clean water to the Navajo Nation. This article pays tribute to Roy Wiegand and the significant work he championed.
Roy Wiegand & the Navajo Water Project
Devoting his life to the Navajo Water Project, Roy Wiegand worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for this crucial cause. His arduous 2,500-mile bike ride shed light on the water crisis faced by the Navajo Nation, showcasing his steadfast dedication to the cause and the people it aimed to support.
Access to clean water has been a long-standing concern for the Navajo Nation, with many residents lacking safe and reliable drinking water sources. The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency estimates that approximately 30% of Navajo households do not have access to public drinking water systems, primarily due to government neglect and lack of investment. However, organizations like the Navajo Water Project, established by the nonprofit DigDeep in 2014, have been leading the charge to address this issue.
The Impact of the Navajo Water Project
The mission of the Navajo Water Project is to ensure access to clean, running water for Navajo Nation residents currently living without it. Since its foundation, the project has installed over 400 water systems, benefitting approximately 2,000 people.
These water systems, including solar-powered wells, storage tanks, and filtration systems, provide sustainable, long-term solutions to the water crisis. Roy Wiegand’s admiration for the Navajo people and understanding of the importance of clean water for their physical health and cultural and spiritual well-being, fuelled his passion for this project.
Remembering and Honouring Roy Wiegand
As news of Roy Wiegand’s passing spread across social media, it inspired many to continue his work in supporting the Navajo Water Project. While his absence leaves a void in the project’s community, his legacy of dedication and commitment remains.
Roy’s journey heightened awareness and funds for the Navajo Water Project, and in his memory, we can all contribute to supporting the project’s mission of providing clean water to Navajo communities. Donations to the Navajo Water Project serve as a tangible way to carry on Roy’s work and ensure his legacy endures.
Each contribution aids in the installation of a water system in a Navajo home, securing clean, running water for generations. In this way, Roy Wiegand’s life, work, and legacy continue to positively influence the lives of the Navajo people. His passionate advocacy for the Navajo Water Project reminds us of the power of dedication and the potential of every individual to make a significant difference.
