1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing as a concerned American to urge you to oppose any federal funding or authorization for border wall construction in the Big Bend region of Texas. Big Bend National Park is a national treasure that belongs to all of us. As a member of Congress, you have a responsibility to protect our shared public lands from unnecessary and destructive infrastructure.
The Big Bend is one of the most remote and ecologically intact stretches of the U.S.–Mexico border. A physical wall here would cause permanent damage to public lands, private property, wildlife corridors, archaeological sites, and the Rio Grande river system — while offering limited additional security benefits in this rugged terrain. Past border barrier projects have proceeded under federal waivers that bypass environmental review, cultural resource protections, and meaningful public input. That approach is simply unacceptable in a landscape of national significance. The Big Bend economy depends on tourism and outdoor recreation based on the preservation of the region’s iconic beauty and ecological health. Industrial-scale infrastructure would permanently alter this region, displace local wildlife and people, and undermine livelihoods. For these reasons, I respectfully ask that you: • Oppose any new border wall construction in the greater Big Bend region. • Support border security strategies that protect this irreplaceable landscape. The Greater Big Bend region is a national treasure. Once damaged, it cannot be restored.