From the desk of Senator Lujan:

“Chaco Canyon is one of the world’s greatest treasures and it is vital that it is protected for our future generations,” Sen. Luján said. “As one of only a handful of World Heritage Sites in the United States, Chaco Canyon holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for our Tribes and Pueblos. That’s why I am proud to have introduced legislation earlier this year that would permanently protect Chaco Canyon and the Greater Chaco Region. With so many Pueblo leaders in D.C. this week, it is clear that protecting Chaco Canyon and the Greater Chaco Region is a top priority, and I am committed to continue fighting to ensure we protect it for generations to come.”

Background: In 2019, as a member of the House, Luján’s legislation to protect Chaco Canyon was passed by the House of Representatives. 

Additionally in 2019, Luján and House leadership held a field hearing in Santa Fe to hear directly from communities impacted by the dangerous levels of methane pollution in northern New Mexico. Luján led lawmakers and inspected oil and gas sites and toured Chaco Canyon Culture National Historic Park to hear from local indigenous leaders. 

Most recently in April of this year, Luján led the N.M. Congressional Delegation in reintroducing legislation to protect Chaco Canyon and the greater sacred landscape surrounding the Chaco Culture National Historical Park.