Changing the Landscape: Honoring Hispanic Heritage on Public Lands
As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive and diverse public spaces, we are excited to announce the release of our latest report, “Changing the Landscape: Honoring Hispanic Heritage on Public Lands.” This collaborative effort with our esteemed partners aims to spotlight the rich and varied contributions of Hispanic communities to the conservation and stewardship of our nation’s public lands.
About the Report
“Changing the Landscape: Honoring Hispanic Heritage on Public Lands” is more than just a document; it’s a call to action. It underscores the importance of integrating Hispanic cultural narratives into the fabric of public land management and conservation efforts. The report highlights personal stories, community insights, and strategic recommendations for making public lands more inclusive and representative of the full spectrum of American heritage.
Why This Matters
The lands and waters we cherish are defining aspects of our identity. As Jerry Otero, Legislative and Policy Director at the Grand Canyon Trust, eloquently states, “The lands, the waters, they’re defining factors of who we are.” This report emphasizes the need to recognize and honor the historical and cultural connections that Hispanic and Latino communities have with these landscapes.
Dr. Maite Arce, President & CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation, adds, “Place is a powerful thing… there’s so much that could have happened in a community, a region, that can really help weave that tapestry that helps make this nation. And it will be much more beautiful and relevant for kids if it’s complete.”
Key Insights
Teresa Martinez, Executive Director of the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, reminds us, “We were never told that our stories mattered, and the stories of Hispanic and Latino connection to the landscape have been missing. They exist, and they need to be shared.” This report seeks to bridge that gap by elevating these crucial narratives and advocating for their inclusion in the broader conservation dialogue.
Moses Borja, Pastor at Living Covenant Church, powerfully states, “This is ours, this is nuestra tierra, this is our culture, this is our history, and, you know, we’ve got to fight for it.” The report champions a community-led and community-derived model for land and water conservation that can guide future decisions about which public lands to preserve and how to manage them.
Get Involved
We invite you to explore the full report and join us in this movement. By understanding and embracing the diverse stories that make up our national heritage, we can work together to create a future where public lands are truly reflective of all the communities that cherish them.
• Report: Honoring Hispanic Heritage on Public Lands
• Video: Watch the Report Summary
Engage with Us on Social Media
Help us spread the word by using the hashtags #HispanicHeritage, #ConservationCultura, and #StoriesOnTheLand.