National Congress of American Indians Issues Resounding Support for Kw'tsán National Monument Designation

Las Vegas, Nevada (November 1, 2024) - The National Congress of American Indians’ (NCAI) adopted a historic and resolute endorsement of the Kw'tsán National Monument proposal at their annual convention in Las Vegas Nevada this past week. For eight decades, NCAI has stood as the oldest and most representative organization dedicated to the voices of American Indian and Alaska Native communities, serving the broad interests of Tribal governments and communities. Today, their support affirms the cultural and ecological urgency of protecting Kw'tsán and the Quechan people’s enduring relationship with these lands.

The proposed Kw'tsán National Monument encompasses more than 380,000 acres northwest of the Fort Yuma Quechan Reservation, rich with biodiversity and intertwined with our Tribe’s ancestral stories.

The following statement is from Quechan Tribal Council Member, Donald Medart, Jr.

“NCAI’s endorsement is a rallying cry, signaling to the nation that Kw'tsán’s landscapes—our creation sites, prayer circles, and geoglyphs—must be safeguarded. Kw'tsán continues to face threats from resource extraction, unchecked development, and the impacts of climate change. With NCAI’s influential support, our vision of co-management and Indigenous-led stewardship stands within reach.

This resolution by NCAI marks a pivotal moment for the Quechan people, other Tribal Nations, and allies across Indian Country to stand united in protecting our heritage. Together with NCAI, the Quechan Tribe calls on President Biden to designate this area as a national monument, ensuring permanent protections and a shared model of stewardship. 

We are grateful to NCAI for amplifying our call and look forward to building momentum with all who value these sacred lands as we continue toward our shared vision of preservation and cultural continuity.”