March 23rd, 2021

Deb Haaland is a 35th generation New Mexican and recently made history by becoming the first indigenous Interior secretary. In 2018 she was the first Native American woman elected into Congress. Haaland’s new position allows her to begin repairing the broken treaties committed by the government toward tribes and help give the indigenous people a voice in this space. Her recent nomination was not only celebrated by tribal groups, but also environmental organizations who have had trouble moving forward with initiatives. Haaland was one of the first lawmakers to support the Green New Deal addressing the urgency actions to address climate change and economic inequality. She has a history of promoting and supporting environmental justice, protecting land and endangered species, management of waters and public lands and so much more. Her nomination is not only a positive direction for environmental reasons, but representation as well.