HECHO Applauds Ciscomani's Bill Establishing Chiricahua as America's 64th National Park

Tucson, AZ - A week after President Trump signed Representative Juan Ciscomani’s Chiricahua National Park Act (H.R. 6380) into law, Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO) and its Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council members are celebrating the historic designation of Chiricahua as Arizona’s fourth national park. Following nearly a decade of bipartisan collaboration, the designation recognizes the ecological, cultural, recreational, and economic significance of this unique landscape while creating new opportunities for conservation, tourism, and surrounding communities.

HECHO, an organization dedicated to ensuring Hispanic communities have a voice in public lands and conservation decisions, joined local leaders, conservation advocates, veterans, and community members in recognizing the significance of this milestone.

Their unique perspectives reflect the importance of protecting Arizona’s natural heritage while ensuring future generations can experience the beauty, history, and opportunities that Chiricahua has to offer.

"I’m so grateful for our incredible partners, including HECHO, who worked across party lines to advocate for Chiricahua’s national park designation. This decade-long effort built the momentum and garnered the federal attention needed to get this across the finish line," said Rep. Juan Ciscomani. "HECHO’s commitment to conservation and its work bringing diverse voices to the table helped demonstrate the broad, bipartisan support behind this historic designation. This achievement will preserve Arizona’s rich heritage for generations to come. As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, I cannot think of a better way to honor our history and natural beauty than by welcoming Arizona’s fourth national park, and the second national park in Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District."

"This is a moment worth celebrating, not only because Chiricahua is now Arizona’s fourth national park and the enactment marks the culmination of years of work, but also because of how we got here. We are especially grateful to Congressman Juan Ciscomani for championing this effort and his leadership in bringing Chiricahua the national recognition it deserves for its ecological, cultural, recreational, and economic significance. His work, alongside Representatives Greg Stanton and Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, shows what we can accomplish when Republicans and Democrats come together around our shared public lands. At a time when our country feels deeply divided, this is a meaningful example of finding common ground for conservation."  — Camilla Simon, Executive Director of HECHO

"I proudly supported the Chiricahua National Park Act, and I’m thrilled to have been part of the effort to make Chiricahua Arizona’s newest national park. As a combat veteran, I know firsthand the healing that can come from spending time on our public lands. A national park in my own backyard has given me a place to find that healing, and I’m excited for more people to have that opportunity at Chiricahua. This designation will bring so much to the surrounding communities, not only economic and recreational opportunities, but also the joy, connection and healing that these special places can provide." — Eduardo Ramos, veteran, hunter and HECHO’s Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council

"Chiricahua is one of those places you have to see with your own eyes to truly understand. Its landscape is breathtaking, and no matter how many times I visit, that feeling never changes. I had the privilege of being in Washington, D.C., advocating for Chiricahua when we learned that the bill had passed Congress, and being there for that moment was incredibly special. Now, to see what we advocated for become a reality with the President’s signature is something I’ll never forget. I’m proud that more people will have the opportunity to experience this extraordinary place." — Eddy Corona, President of Outdoor Experience 4 All and member of HECHO’s Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council

"The Chiricahuas in southeastern Arizona are a true hidden gem. Having hiked and camped there in the past, I can attest to its spectacular rock formations, incredible biodiversity, endless night skies, and abundant wildlife. This designation will boost the local economy and encourage more visitors to experience this unique landscape." — Patty Contreras, Arizona State Representative and member of HECHO’s Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council

"I’ve explored the outdoors throughout Arizona, but the Chiricahuas hold a particularly special place in my heart. I feel a deep spiritual connection to this landscape unlike anywhere else in the state. From the incredible rock formations to the abundance of wildlife, the Chiricahuas are truly one of a kind. It’s one of the few places in Arizona where I’ve been fortunate enough to encounter such a remarkable diversity of wildlife. It’s one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets, and I hope it never loses the qualities that make it so special. I’m excited about this step forward and hopeful that National Park designation will bring greater resources, and lasting protections to this extraordinary place." — Adriana Garcia Maximiliano, Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council member

"The first time I visited Chiricahua with my family, I was struck by its extraordinary beauty, rich history, and the deep significance it holds for so many Tribal communities. If I had to describe it in one word, it would be magical. As someone who has seen firsthand the benefits of having a national park near our community, I know how meaningful this designation could be for southern Arizona. It will create opportunities for local businesses, bring new tourism revenue, and strengthen the Southwest as a destination for people who come to experience our incredible public lands. But beyond the economic benefits, this is about reaffirming our commitment to conserving these special places for generations to come. National parks allow us to build a stronger economic future for our communities without sacrificing the landscapes, wildlife, and history that make them so extraordinary." — Sarah Benatar, Coconino County Treasurer

"The balancing rocks at Chiricahua make it one of the most unique and beautiful places on Earth, which is exactly why I’m thrilled to see it become Arizona’s fourth national park. This historic designation will help protect and preserve Chiricahua’s natural beauty for generations to come, while boosting tourism from around the world and growing our economy." — Arizona House Democratic Leader Oscar De Los Santos

HECHO works to ensure Hispanic communities have a meaningful voice in the conservation of America’s public lands. Through its advocacy and partnerships, the organization helps advance conservation efforts that reflect the needs and values of local communities. HECHO is committed to protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the Southwest for future generations.
 

Read local coverage on Chiricahua's national park designation HERE, HERE, and HERE.

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