Herencia y Querencia: Building Upon Our Heritage to Protect the Future of Our Public Lands
Our public lands, and the people and wildlife who rely on them, face extraordinary challenges. Whether it’s proposed huge fee increases for our National Parks; shrinking our beloved National Monuments; or protecting our clean air and water, our public lands – and our diverse cultural heritage - are at risk. For centuries, New Mexicans have been connected to the land. Yet a breadth of views and participation in support of conservation efforts has long been missing from policy debates. This forum will allow us to share our collective heritage and discuss how we can make Hispanic voices heard.
Presenters: Dr. Eric Romero will share the story of the unique cultural connection and heritage of New Mexicans to the land, including land grants and acequias. Max Trujillo will speak about the importance of our centuries-old traditions of hunting, fishing, and living off the land in protecting public lands, including national monuments and forests. San Miguel County Commissioner Rock Ulibarri will share why he is involved with HECHO and how his volunteerism honors his family's herencia y querencia of the land. Yvonne Tapia, daughter of generations of NM ranchers & hunters, will share her story as a life-long hunter and guide; and the importance of passing this way of life on to future generations. A Local Youth Representative will speak about what "Querencia" means to him/her.