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Statement: Havasupai are Leading Protection of Lands
~ by Stuart Chavez, Havasupai Tribe Uranium Committee member
Stuart Chavez, Sandy Bahr, Carletta Tilousi. Photo courtesy of Sandy Bahr
Photo courtesy of Caletta Tilousi
“The work that the Havasupai Tribe’s leadership and Committee members have done in an attempt to stop uranium mining is important to highlight because of the sacredness of the environment of Havasupai ancestral lands and the natural resources that surround the current mining area. Protection of these resources above and below the ground is extremely crucial because of the danger imposed on the Havasupai’s water resources and spiritual beliefs. By developing a disconnect to the current location of the mine it has a deeper impact on spiritual practices that cause ripple effects on more than everyday practices.
The current Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni National Monument stands proudly as a physical representation of the efforts of multiple tribes to protect sacred areas that are significant to each tribe in a specific way. The Havasupai’s connection to Red Butte and the surrounding area has a deeper meaning than words can express; the area is a physical representation of Havasupai history and past experiences that connect us to our ancestors and time.
This is why we fought for protection.”
~ Stuart Chavez, Havasupai Tribe Uranium Committee member