We have just finished our travels through the Navajo region of the U.S. and while we have been able to post many photos of the wonderful canyons in the area we have not been able to take many photos of the people themselves and where and how they live. This is due to the numerous signs that are up everywhere that photos are not to be taken. So I will write this post without photos.
There is obviously a torrid history behind the Native American Indian people’s relationship with the Americans and you can certainly feel a bit of resentment as you travel around. Having said that, certain areas, particularly Page where the Antelope Canyons are, you feel that the American Indians have certainly embraced the benefits of tourists, especially the money they/we bring in.
As we drive through the towns the buildings are a mix of trailers and newly built estates and the dusty nature of the landscape certainly adds to the poverty laden look of the places. Yet in and amongst this the cars they are driving are often the latest dual cab Utes, so there is obviously some money somewhere.
There are also some impressive schools and hospitals built in all the towns and some of the facilities in the tourist locations are second to none and clearly very expensive to build.
We also noticed that not many of the locals own their own washing machines as owning a local launderette would definitely be an early track to retirement!! 
There is definitely some money coming in from the tourist trades as, apart from Canyon de Chelly, you are charged both an entry fee and a fee to enter the Navajo nation every time you arrive at a tourist destination.  
We would, however need to spend a lot longer in the area to gain a better understanding as to how this wealth is distributed and whether everyone is looked after.
All in all a lovely snapshot of the culture but there is no way that we even scratched the surface. So will reserve judgement but just wanted to note some first impressions.