These days, threats to Utah’s wildest places seem to pile on top of each other like willow branches on the banks of the Colorado River, but the Utah delegation’s weaponization of the Congressional Review Act (CRA) looms largest of all right now, threatening to upend the management of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and undo years of scientific study, Tribal consultation, and public input.
Once again, this latest attack on the monument originated with Utah’s own legislators. That’s why it’s so important that folks from across the country stand together in strong defense of this national treasure. As our organizers rally nationwide support, one tactic remains as crucial as ever: arranging in-district meetings so constituents can meet face-to-face with their members of Congress (or their staff) right in their own home state.
In-district meetings make a difference. When a group of constituents ask their representative to oppose attacks on beloved national monuments and other public lands, the impact ripples outward. Congressional staff log these requests and use these meetings to brief their members of Congress when bills come up for a vote. In-district meetings also help congressional offices track patterns of engagement. A small group of well-prepared constituents can elevate an issue quickly and make it politically relevant.
In February, we partnered with Sierra Club and the Center for Western Priorities on a webinar on Grand Staircase-Escalante that was attended by more than 300 people. These connections, along with countless phone calls, emails, and other outreach efforts, have helped our organizers find redrock supporters across the country who are willing to speak out for this incredible landscape. Meetings with congressional offices are happening—all thanks to you!
Ready to join this critical effort? Start by contacting one of SUWA’s regional organizers (find info on our website at suwa.org/regionalorganizers). We can help you schedule meetings with your members of Congress, connect you with other engaged constituents in your district, and equip you with clear talking points and background materials. Organizers make sure you understand the ask, the stakes, and the strategy, and will guide you through preparation and follow-up to maximize the effectiveness of your efforts.
—Chris Riccardo and Nicole Milavetz
Live In a Key District? Please Reach Out!
While you can always make a difference regardless of where you live, certain key districts are strategically important in this fight. If you or someone you know who loves the redrock lives in Nebraska, the greater Philadelphia area (including both Pennsylvania and New Jersey), Maine, the Western Slope of Colorado, the Lower Hudson River Valley in New York, Tucson and SE Arizona, or the suburbs NE of Sacramento, please visit suwa.org/regionalorganizers and connect with the organizer for your area.
The above article first appeared in the Spring 2026 issue of our Redrock Wilderness newsletter. Become a member to receive our print newsletter in your mailbox 3 times a year.
