Protect Bears Ears, keep public land in public hands
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has”
In December of 2016, President Obama instilled one of his last greatest legacies before leaving office. He designated two new national monuments that would protect 1.35 million acres of federal land surrounding Bears Ears, in southeastern Utah, and 300,000 acres around Gold Butte, in Nevada. Such efforts in claiming these two places national monuments, were his last effort to protect public lands and waters from dirty energy development, and environmental degradation.
Now, only a year or so into our new President’s term, the Trump administration and Department of Interior, have decided to revoke protection of Bears Ears National Monument. Projecting to shrink 80% of land that is currently protected under the Antiquities Act.
Map: courtesy of The Nature Conservancy
The country of Bears Ears is one of the most gorgeous desert landscapes, with breathtaking views of red rock formations, towers, and wildlife. More importantly, it is a place of special spiritual and ceremonial significance to the Indian tribes and pueblos, whose history and ancestry have had connections to this place for thousands of years. Such is why Mr. Obama vowed to protect these places under the “Antiquities Act”, which was created in 1906, giving authorities the right to protect historical and cultural sites of interest. The act has been used over 150 times, by almost every president in the past. Other places such as Zion, Grand Canyon, and Tetons have all been protected under this act in the past. It should be noted that no other president has tried to dismantle such protected areas under this act in all of our history.
Tribal leaders and medicine people still go to conduct ceremonies, collect herbs for medicinal practices and perform healing rituals here. Twenty-six different tribes have come together in wanting to protect this land. Even starting their own Inter-Tribal Coalition to promote and advocate continual protection of their ancient and sacred homeland.
Tens of thousands of cliff dwellings, ceremonial “kivas,” pit houses, granaries, towers and rock art panels, along with countless artifacts can be found here. Left from some of the first Americans, going back more than 10,000 years. Tribal leaders emphasize that “their relationship and visits to Bears Ears are essential for healing, and ruining the integrity of those lands forever from mining and looting compromises our ability to heal.”
Bears ears territory
For the rest of us living in the Southwest, we too support native tribes and feel the violation on this beloved land. Places like Bears Ears and Gold Butte are just beyond our own backyards and many come here to re-connect to history, mother earth, heal, and respectfully adventure. These sacred places must continue to be protected today and always for future generations.
Help tell President Trump and the Department of Interior to keep public lands in public hands, protected and safe.
Sign the pledge: Don't Touch Bears Ears