Safeguard national monuments, protect public lands and heritage

The administration's plans to review and potentially redraw the boundaries of national monuments is concerning for the protection of public lands, cultural resources, and sacred sites. These monuments were established to safeguard unique landscapes, historical significance, and Indigenous heritage. Altering their boundaries threatens to undermine conservation efforts and disregard the cultural importance of these areas. The proposal appears driven by aims to expand energy production, particularly in regions like Utah with coal, uranium, and oil reserves. However, prioritizing fossil fuel extraction over environmental preservation and tribal sovereignty raises ethical questions and long-term consequences. National monuments attract tourism, boost local economies through outdoor recreation, and preserve ecological diversity and cultural heritage for future generations. I urge you to uphold the existing protections for national monuments like Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante. These public lands belong to all Americans and hold irreplaceable natural and cultural value that should not be compromised for short-term resource extraction. Please consider the widespread support for preserving these cherished sites and the importance of honoring Indigenous voices in managing lands sacred to tribal nations. Responsible stewardship of our shared landscapes and respect for all cultures should guide decision-making.