DENVER—In response to Utah Senator Mike Lee’s one-sided field hearing against the proposed Bears Ears National Monument, the Center for Western Priorities released the following statement.
Jennifer Rokala, Executive Director:
“After today’s hearing, it’s clear why the tribal backers of a monument designation say they’ve been disrespected throughout the process. When Governor Herbert refers to a thoughtful tribal proposal for a national monument as ‘a political tomahawk,’ he continues that sad tradition of dismissing Native voices.
“At today’s hearing, Congressman Rob Bishop said his Public Lands Initiative was ‘done,’ and he’s not open to making major changes to the bill. The PLI, as it stands today, is a non-starter, with no support from conservation groups. If Rep. Bishop is unwilling to craft an actual ‘grand bargain,’ as he has promised for three years, it’s incumbent on President Obama to protect Bears Ears using his authority under the Antiquities Act.”