Russell Begaye: “In designating the Bears Ears National Monument, President Obama recognized this truth.”

Language preservation funding like Ester Martinez has provided resources for programs across Indian Country to help our youth learn their Native languages to preserve our rich traditions and unique culture.

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.

But, over 90 percent of Utah Navajos support the monument.

We respectfully, yet strongly, urge you to reject these proposals and maintain full funding for the Community Health Representative and Health Education programs in the fiscal year 2019 budget.