President Joe Biden will designate Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument during his visit to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. This marks the fifth national monument designation of his presidency. The new monument will protect the area from potential uranium mining and support existing grazing permits, leases, mining claims, hunting, and fishing. Covering approximately 917,000 acres of public land, the designation fulfills demands from tribal leaders, environmental activists, and Arizona lawmakers for the protection of the Grand Canyon’s surrounding lands.
The Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory stated that the designated area is sacred to tribal nations and indigenous peoples. It contains biodiverse habitats that provide refuge for various wildlife species, including bighorn sheep, bison, bald eagles, and songbirds. Moreover, the creeks and streams in the area contribute to the Colorado River, a critical water supply for millions of people in the Southwest.
Carletta Tilousi, coordinator of the Grand Canyon Tribal Coalition, expressed gratitude for the permanent protection of the lands, which have been under threat from destructive operations like uranium mining. The Biden administration gathered public input on the designation, and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American Cabinet secretary, visited the area in May to meet with tribal leaders.
Haaland described her visit to the Grand Canyon as one of the most meaningful trips of her life. She emphasized the significance of the land and its connection to the history of Native American tribes, such as the Havasupai people. Haaland revealed that the Havasupai people’s ancestors lived, farmed, and prayed in the canyons and plateaus beyond the reservation boundaries, and their story resonates with many tribes in the Southwest.
The designation of Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni will not only enable indigenous peoples to continue their religious ceremonies, hunting, and gathering but also sends a powerful message of appreciation and recognition to native people. Haaland stated that Native American history is American history and expressed the administration’s commitment to tribally led conservation, co-stewardship, and the well-being of native people.
In addition to the national monument designation, President Biden will announce a $44 million investment to enhance climate resilience across the national park system. This funding will come from the Inflation Reduction Act and will help address the impacts of extreme heat, which is a significant concern in the Southwest. Heat-related deaths are increasing, emergency rooms are treating more heat-related burn victims, and even animals are suffering from heat illness. Biden will emphasize the climate provisions of the bill and highlight the need to safeguard natural areas and protect vulnerable communities from the effects of climate change during his visit to Arizona.