“We stand in support of the designation of Chuckwalla National Monument as well as the public lands adjacent to Joshua Tree National Park and thank the Department of Interior for hosting a community meeting around these vital protections today,” said Maite Arce, President & CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation.

“It’s no secret that the Latino community is disproportionately deprived of access to green spaces and public lands in California like Chuckwalla, and designating these lands will help ensure more equitable recreation access, improve public health, address the climate crisis, and safeguard clean air and water for all.

“We call on the Biden administration to designate the Chuckwalla National Monument and preserve the California Desert’s rich history for future generations.”