A group of conservation organizations and Native American tribal members is urging President Joe Biden to designate nearly 140,000 acres of Badlands in North Dakota as the state’s first national monument. This area, called the Maah Daah Hey National Monument, includes 11 noncontiguous units totaling 139,729 acres in the Little Missouri National Grassland. The site is adjacent to the popular Maah Daah Hey Trail and close to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Michael Barthelemy, a member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, emphasizes the need to tell the history of the people who lived in these landscapes and their relationship with the land. The U.S. Forest Service would manage the proposed monument, which aims to protect the area’s cultural and natural features.
Supporters have met with officials from various government departments to advocate for the proposal. However, with less than two months left in Biden’s term and uncertainty about the incoming Trump administration, the effort could face challenges. If necessary, supporters would reach out to the Trump administration, believing in the value of this proposal.
What are the main cultural significances of the Maah Daah Hey National Monument for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation?
Interview with Michael Barthelemy: Advocating for the Maah Daah Hey National Monument
Date: October 2023
Interviewer: [Your Name]
Publication: NewsDirectory3.com
[Your Name]: Thank you for joining us, Michael. As a member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, why is the designation of the Maah Daah Hey National Monument so important to you and your community?
Michael Barthelemy: Thank you for having me. The Maah Daah Hey National Monument is crucial not just for its natural beauty but for its deep cultural significance. This land is intertwined with our history—it’s where our ancestors lived, hunted, and thrived. Establishing the monument is an opportunity to honor that legacy and educate others about our stewardship of this land and its importance to our community.
[Your Name]: There are many groups supporting this initiative, including tribal leaders and conservation organizations. Can you elaborate on the coalition’s efforts?
Michael Barthelemy: Yes, we have united with various organizations dedicated to conservation, as well as tribal officials from the MHA Nation, Spirit Lake Tribe, and Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, all of whom have passed resolutions in support. We’ve been actively meeting with representatives from different government departments to advocate for the monument. While we face the challenge of time, especially with the upcoming change in administration, our determination remains strong. If we have to, we will reach out to the new administration as well, believing in the enduring value of this proposal.
[Your Name]: With less than two months left in President Biden’s term, what do you see as the potential hurdles for this initiative?
Michael Barthelemy: The primary hurdle is the transition of power. We are aware that incoming administrations often have different priorities. However, we feel confident that the merits of this proposal—preserving our cultural and natural resources—will resonate irrespective of the political climate. We’re committed to making this happen, and changing hearts and minds is part of the process.
[Your Name]: There has been some discussion about the existing oil and gas wells in the region. How do you respond to those concerns, especially from figures like Senator John Hoeven?
Michael Barthelemy: It’s important to clarify that the proposed monument units currently have no active oil and gas leases or grazing leases that would be affected. Our goal is not to infringe on energy development but to protect this unique landscape. We believe that both conservation and respectful energy practices can coexist. Our heritage and the preservation of our history should take precedence, and we’re ready to work collaboratively to ensure that happens.
[Your Name]: North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum seems to emphasize a balance between conservation and energy development. How does this align with the tribes’ vision for the monument?
Michael Barthelemy: Governor Burgum’s intention to find that balance is acknowledged, but our focus is on establishing a national monument as a safe haven for our cultural and natural resources. This monument would help tribal citizens reconnect with their heritage, providing a space to honor our ancestors and educate future generations. Conservation needs to take priority at times, especially given the historical injustices faced by our communities regarding land use.
[Your Name]: what do you hope the designation of the Maah Daah Hey National Monument will achieve for your community and for future generations?
Michael Barthelemy: My hope is that this designation will serve as a recognition of our history and the importance of our connection to the land. It is about preserving not just the physical landscape but also the stories and cultural values tied to it. For future generations, it will provide a refuge to learn about their ancestry, instill pride, and maintain a tangible link to their heritage. It’s about justice, respect, and ultimately healing for our community.
[Your Name]: Thank you, Michael, for sharing your insights and advocating for such a vital initiative. We appreciate your time and commitment.
Michael Barthelemy: Thank you for bringing attention to this important conversation.
There are many oil and gas wells in the region, but the proposed monument units have no active oil and gas leases or grazing leases that would be affected. The MHA Nation, Spirit Lake Tribe, and Standing Rock Sioux Tribe support the proposal through council resolutions.
Establishing the monument would help tribal citizens connect with their heritage, according to Democratic state Rep. Lisa Finley-DeVille. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum expressed his belief in balancing park protection and energy development. Meanwhile, Senator John Hoeven has concerns that the proposal could hinder ranchers and energy development.
