Our Story

Black Water Strategies, LLC was founded out of a deep commitment to tribal sovereignty, Indigenous self-determination, and the advancement of Tribal governance and justice systems. After over a decade of service in tribal government—most notably as the Tribal Court Assessment Director and Administrative Director of the Courts for the Navajo Nation—founder Bennie Francisco Jr. recognized a growing need for culturally grounded strategic support tailored specifically to tribal communities.

Having worked at the intersection of law, policy, research, and traditional knowledge, Bennie witnessed firsthand the challenges tribal nations face in navigating complex governance issues while upholding their unique cultural and legal traditions. Black Water Strategies emerged from this experience as a response to those challenges—a way to continue serving Indigenous communities through thoughtful, values-based consulting.

The name “Black Water” or "Tó Łizhín" in Navajo, honors Bennie’s heritage and connection to his homestead and teachings of his late grandmother Nina M. Largo, who was a long-life community advocate, Peacemaker, and traditionalist. Black Water represents clarity, reflection, and strength—qualities that guide the firm's approach to every project and partnership.

Since its founding, Black Water Strategies has set out to help tribal governments, courts, organizations, and institutions build and sustain systems that are not only effective but rooted in community, culture, and accountability. It is more than a consulting firm—it is a movement toward Indigenous-led solutions for Indigenous futures. A certified business in the State of New Mexico and the Navajo Nation as priority #1.