National Monuments Face Possible Downsizing

• Leaders of five Christian denominations, including the United Church of Christ, issued a letter to Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke urging him to uphold the existing boundaries of Bears Ears National Monument in Utah following an executive order by President Trump to assess whether 27 national monuments should be reduced or eliminated. Read an article detailing the issue as a racial justice matter.

• A recent article from Hawai'i Public Radio discusses the possible downsizing of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, the world’s largest marine conservation area, in response to a similar presidential executive order. Written public comments may be submitted until July 26.

Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument