Letter To The Editor
Published by The Deming Headlight | Edition 03/04/2025 | Page 3 www.demingheadlight.com/eedition
Dear Editor,
The call to get rid of the Antiquities Act is a dangerous overreaction that dismisses over a century of bipartisan conservation efforts. The proclamation opposing the Antiquities Act by the Luna County Commission reflects a shortsighted view of what it means to protect our lands and heritage.
I grew up in Luna County and have always felt a deep connection to the land that surrounds us. The vast deserts, rugged mountains and ancient cultural sites are not just scenery — they are part of our heritage, our traditions and our identity. For generations, our families have lived in harmony with this land, hunting, fishing, and honoring its sacred places.
The Antiquities Act has been used by 18 presidents — eight Republicans and 10 Democrats — to protect more than 800 million acres of public land. This bipartisan legacy shows that conservation is not a partisan issue but a shared American value. Theodore Roosevelt who designated the Grand Canyon, to Barack Obama, who protected Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks nearby, presidents from both parties have recognized the importance of preserving our natural and cultural heritage.
Here in Deming, we benefit from these protections. Our public lands are not just places of beauty; these are places where we hunt, hike, camp, gather, celebrate, and connect with our history. The Antiquities Act helps keep these lands intact for our kids and grandkids, allowing them to experience the same sense of wonder and pride that we do today. Public Lands are the heart of who we are as Nuevo Mexicanos and as Americans.
The Antiquities Act doesn’t hinder economic development. In fact, protected lands and monuments help rural communities draw tourism, supporting outdoor recreation and creating jobs. In New Mexico, our public lands are a cornerstone of our identity and economy, attracting visitors who contribute to local businesses and communities. Moreover, the assertion that the Act excludes local voices is misleading. Many monument designations, including those in New Mexico, have involved extensive collaboration with Tribal nations, local stakeholders, and community leaders. Instead of getting rid of it, we should focus on ensuring that local communities are meaningfully engaged in the process.
Our public lands are not just resources to be exploited — they are a legacy to be cherished and protected. The Antiquities Act is an important tool for that mission, and we must defend it for the sake of our heritage, our identity and our future.
(s)Raymond J. Trejo Luna County Commissioner District 1