Russell Begaye

the Navajo Nation definitively states that we had no consultation on H.R. 4532, and we hereby reaffirm our opposition to H.R. 4532.

The Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition adamantly opposes H.R. 4532 and its attempt to legislatively confirm President Trump's unlawful action revoking, replacing, and dismantling the Bear Ears National Monument.

This is incorrect. The Navajo Nation and the other tribes of the five-tribe Bears Ears Inter-Tribal coalition were not consulted with prior to the introduction of H.R. 4532.

the answer, then, lies with Congress, which can pass laws that withstand the test of time and presidents.

H.R. 4532 retains the same failing as the Trump proclamation: it does not protect the Bears Ears landscape in a way that is meaningful and lasting.

H.R. 4518 truly honors tribes and tribal sovereignty, and ensures a meaningful role for us in managing the lands.

We cannot support a further congressional reduction in the area of the monument, much less the drastic reduction proposed by H.R. 4532.

Nothing about the Tribal Management Council would reflect the needs, interests, and expertise of the federally-recognized Indian tribes.

The Ute Indian Tribe remains adamantly opposed to H.R. 4532 which would legislatively confirm President Trump's unlawful action.

Chairman Bishop and Congressman Curtis as well as other supporters of H.R. 4532 continually make misleading and false claims.

I am here because our people care enormously about the Bears Ears National Monument and stand united with the tribes represented before you today.

The Navajo Nation elected leadership and our grassroots community fully supported and advocated for the original designation.