Washington, D.C.: In response to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland’s visit to meet with tribal leaders on the proposed Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument, the  League of Conservation Voters (LCV) and Chispa Arizona released the following statements:

“Secretary Haaland’s visit builds on the decades of Tribally-led efforts to strengthen protections for the cultural, ecological, and recreational resources in the Grand Canyon region,” said America Fitzpatrick, LCV’s Conservation Program Director. “LCV appreciates the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to locally-led conservation and urges President Biden to move quickly to protect the greater Grand Canyon watershed.”

“We commend Secretary Haaland for her visit to the Grand Canyon, which builds on Tribally-led efforts to protect this cherished region.” said Vania Guevara, Chispa AZ Advocacy Deputy Director. ”A national monument designation would secure the ecological integrity of the Colorado River watershed, support endangered wildlife, and advance climate justice for frontline communities. Chispa Arizona urges President Biden to prioritize the protection of the Grand Canyon.”

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