“While the number of national monuments focusing on the history, culture and lives of diverse communities still falls short of truly representing our nation’s cultural heritage, Presidents yielding their authority to create national monuments under the Antiquities Act have made significant progress to protect diverse sites. This year, this is especially true, as President Biden has designated Avi Kwa Ame National Monument and Castner Range National Monument. The administration has continued the progress of the past 25 years, which has led to the establishment and protection of national monuments like Cesar Chavez, Bears Ears, Camp Nelson Heritage, and Rio Grande Del Norte.

“As we reflect on this anniversary, it’s important we recommit to preserving the Antiquities Act and honoring its importance in protecting, recognizing and celebrating the diverse cultures and contributions from all Americans. We also call on the administration to take action to protect more historically significant lands like the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument and the expansion of the Berryessa Snow Mountain and San Gabriel Mountains National Monuments to continue to honor the diverse experiences of our nation.

“The designation of the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument has received widespread support from tribes, environmental groups, hunters and anglers, and community leaders. Protecting these lands, which hold a spiritual connection for tribes, would also protect its biological, scientific, and watershed significance for future generations.

“Expanding Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to protect Molok Luyuk will not only provide equitable access, but Molok Luyuk holds many plant and animal species that are traditionally important to the local tribes and residents. Calling on the expansion of this area with the leadership of its local tribal communities is a right step in listening to our indigenous communities to help protect their sacred, culturally significant areas and ensure the protection of their history.

“With the San Gabriel Mountains being one of the few places for Los Angeleans to enjoy the outdoors, adding 109,000 acres of the Angeles National Forest to the national monument will help ensure they can enjoy outdoor recreational activities like hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, fishing biking, etc. Expanding the monument will ensure historically underserved communities can enjoy this beloved region now and for generations to come.

“While there is still a long way to go, the Antiquities Act is an important tool in the process of establishing equity in our nation’s public lands and increasing opportunities for physical activity and access to open spaces for Latino and other low-income communities.”

In 1906, Theodore Roosevelt signed the Antiquities Act into law granting the executive office the authority to establish national monuments. To this day, it remains as one of the most powerful federal tools to preserve open space, natural treasures and cultural and historical sites in the U.S.