Friends of Cedar Mesa welcomes the historic confirmation of Secretary Deb Haaland to lead the Department of Interior. As the first Indigenous woman to hold a cabinet position, her confirmation marks an important step toward inclusive management of ancestral lands, known more broadly today as our collective public lands. As an Indigenous leader, Haaland brings a critical perspective to the challenges facing the Department of Interior, including improving Tribal consultation.
There is no doubt, Haaland has demonstrated a great commitment to protecting America’s treasured landscapes, including Bears Ears National Monument. She has previously visited the area and has signaled her willingness to visit Utah again.
Friends of Cedar Mesa has provided on-the-ground education to two previous Secretaries of Interior, Fmr. Secretary Sally Jewel and Fmr. Secretary Ryan Zinke, in the last five years. We offer any support we can provide to assist Secretary Haaland in learning about unique conditions on the ground, as well as the urgent need for real protections and resources to preserve this sensitive and culturally rich landscape.