VVF Applauds Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service for Hosting Community Meeting to Discuss Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument

Washington, D.C. — Earlier today, the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service hosted a
community meeting in Flagstaff, Arizona, regarding management of the region’s public lands, including a proposal to designate the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument. In reaction to the meeting, Vet Voice Foundation CEO, Janessa Goldbeck, released the following statement:

“From their first day in office, the Biden Administration has operated with an open door and a focus on listening to community groups. And today’s meeting is yet another example – once again highlighting this administration’s commitment to our nation’s public lands and the goals laid out with their America the Beautiful agenda.

“At least eleven Tribes maintain cultural connections to the Grand Canyon. Because of its connection to Native peoples – a group that has the highest per-capita representation of any in the U.S. Armed Forces – the Grand Canyon, and the extended area surrounding it, is by default a special place for veterans and military families.

“In addition to the spiritual and cultural significance of this area, the Grand Canyon watershed also provides abundant opportunities for hiking, hunting, fishing, and solitude – key experiences veterans have long turned to in the wake of their military service.

“We look forward to working alongside the Tribal leaders, community groups, our fellow veterans, and the Biden administration to see the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument move from a goal to a reality. ”