President Joe Biden signed a national monument designation for the greater Grand Canyon, fulfilling the long-held dreams of Native American tribes and environmentalists. This move, which comes during Biden’s Western trip, will protect approximately 1,562 square miles of land surrounding Grand Canyon National Park. This area is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, including bison, elk, desert bighorn sheep, and rare cacti. The designation is the fifth of its kind under Biden’s administration.
Arizona tribes have advocated for the creation of a new national monument called Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni. This name signifies the importance of the land to the Havasupai and Hopi tribes. Biden believes that preserving these lands is not only beneficial for Arizona but also for the planet as a whole. He emphasized the positive impacts on the economy and the nation’s well-being.
The president linked this designation to his administration’s commitment to combatting climate change, highlighting the extreme heat experienced this summer. Biden criticized those who oppose green energy and federal environmental protections, specifically referring to supporters of former President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement. Biden made these remarks at Red Butte, a culturally significant site for the Havasupai and Hopi tribes.
Biden acknowledged the historical mistreatment of Native American tribes and expressed the importance of honoring treaty obligations. The ceremony was attended by various Indigenous leaders, demonstrating the significance of this achievement for their communities.
Republican lawmakers and the uranium mining industry expressed opposition to the designation, citing economic benefits and national security concerns. However, existing mining claims will not be affected, and other regions in the country contain significant uranium deposits.
Finally, Biden’s visit to Arizona holds political significance as it is a critical battleground state. Winning Arizona is crucial for his re-election efforts. After Arizona, Biden will visit New Mexico and Utah, further emphasizing the importance of Western states in his administration’s agenda.
Overall, the designation of the greater Grand Canyon as a national monument marks a significant milestone in environmental conservation and Indigenous rights. It aligns with President Biden’s commitment to address climate change and honor the nation’s treaty obligations.
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