HECHO Applauds House Passage of Chiricahua National Park Act

Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO) welcomes the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the Chiricahua National Park Act, a significant step forward in the effort to designate Chiricahua National Monument as a National Park. 

“HECHO applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Chiricahua National Park Act and recognizes the leadership of Representative Juan Ciscomani, who has worked for years to advance this effort and build momentum for protecting one of Arizona’s most extraordinary landscapes. We are encouraged by the strong bipartisan support behind this legislation in both chambers of Congress, which reflects a shared commitment across parties to protect Chiricahua for future generations. Designating Chiricahua as a national park will strengthen conservation, increase tourism, protect Tribal access, and grow the outdoor recreation economy, while supporting local jobs and small businesses throughout Cochise County. We look forward to the Senate advancing this important legislation and bringing Chiricahua one step closer to becoming Arizona’s next national park,” said Camilla Simon, Executive Director of HECHO. 

Known for its dramatic rock formations, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural history, the area has long served as a place where visitors connect with nature and with one another. 

“Today’s passage of this bill recognizes the extraordinary value of places like Chiricahua National Monument and the surrounding Coronado National Forest, landscapes that define southeastern Arizona’s character. Protecting this remarkable place helps ensure that future generations can encounter the same sense of awe, memory-making, and connection to land that my own family has experienced,” said Orlando Cazarez, member of HECHO’s Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council. 

As the legislation advances to the Senate, HECHO will continue working with partners, local leaders, and policymakers to ensure that conservation efforts reflect the voices and experiences of the communities who cherish and care for these landscapes.