May 24, 2017
For immediate release
ALBUQUERQUE– For years, diverse northern communities came together to protect Rio Grande del Norte. Now with the Department of the Interior reviewing national monuments, the community is once again joining forces to protect our public lands and cultural heritage.
This Saturday, May 27th the New Mexico Wildlife Federation is excited to hold a traditional Matanza in Taos to celebrate our Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. U.S. Congressman Ben Ray Lujan will be in attendance and make remarks about the importance of protecting our national monuments.
By holding this event on the monument Memorial Day weekend, we are remembering the important part our veterans have had in protecting our public lands. Time and again, our public lands have provided a healing place for veterans, and we look forward to this opportunity to honor their service on the very monument they have fought for and helped protect.
“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate our public lands and shared cultural heritage than with a Matanza,” said executive director Garrett Vene Klasen. “This event is the perfect way to honor the hard work put into getting our monument designated and our continued efforts to make sure our national monuments stay just as they are under new attacks. Our national monuments are not just crucial places for wildlife, but they also celebrate our unique heritage across the country and here in New Mexico.”
At the event the public will be encouraged to write comments to the Department of Interior stating their support for Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, as well as other monuments currently under review. NMWF will deliver the letters to Interior before the July 10th deadline.
Details:
- Saturday, May 27th
Taos Mesa Brewing
20 ABC Mesa Road, Taos
12 – 5 pm
Free food, beer, and entertainment will be provided.
