This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Stewardship is an action, not a catch phrase. Bears Ears National Monument protects Mormon pioneer artifacts, cliff dwellings and thousands of other cultural sites, while allowing access and continued traditional tribal uses.
The process that led to the monument's designation was impressive. People have tried for more than 80 years to protect these public lands. The diverse group of supporters, led by the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, had hoped that Congress would protect this area and gave Rep. Rob Bishop and others years to produce.
Sadly, when Utah's delegation introduced the flawed Public Lands Initiative it was full of loopholes and Congress adjourned, accomplishing nothing on this issue once again. President Obama took action and did the right thing.
Obama's decision was based on a thoughtful process which engaged the locals and stakeholders, both proponents and opponents. Administration staff visited the region, listened to everyone, and did what leaders do — made a decision. President Obama, thank you for going high when so many of our leaders are going low.
Finally, as an attorney and former state senator, I ask Utah's elected officials, don't waste taxpayer dollars on political grandstanding, particularly when there are greater needs. The system worked; please respect the process.
Scott D. McCoy
Southern Poverty Law Center
Tallahassee, FL.