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It’s Time to Expand National Monuments in California
President Biden, it’s Time to Designate National Monuments in California!
We’re calling on President Biden to continue protecting public lands as national monuments in California after the recent expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument near Los Angeles and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument in Northern California. Let's ensure more access to nature for Latino communities and protect Tribal lands, important sources of water, and wildlife habitat within California.
Chuckwalla National Monument
WHAT IS IT
The proposed Chuckwalla National Monument, stretching from the Coachella Valley in the west to the Colorado River in the east, would protect approximately 627,000 acres, ensuring more equitable access to nature for residents in the Eastern Coachella Valley and Blythe.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
The proposed Chuckwalla National Monument includes many places enjoyed for outdoor recreation activities, including Painted Canyon and Box Canyon in the Mecca Hills area, Corn Springs campground, and the Bradshaw Trail. We can protect these places for current and future generations to experience and enjoy.
Sáttítla National Monument
WHAT IS IT
FFurther north, nestled in the Shasta-Trinity, Klamath, and Modoc National Forests is an area known as Sáttítla in the Medicine Lake Highlands. This landscape is home to a rich legacy of Indigenous culture and sacred to the Pit River, Modoc, Shasta, Karuk, and Wintu Tribes. Sáttítla is a spiritual center for the Pit River and Modoc Tribes, who continue to use the area for religious activities, ceremonies, and gatherings.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
Home to volcanically formed underground aquifers, these lands and waters have sustained Indigenous peoples for thousands of years and benefit millions of people who live downstream in California. Sáttítla could rightfully be called the headwaters of the state for its role in providing pure water to millions of residents, to wildlife, as well as serving agricultural needs downstream.
Kw’tsán National Monument
WHAT IS IT
The proposed Kw’tsán National Monument encompasses more than 390,000 acres of lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management in Imperial County. The proposed national monument is part of a greater cultural landscape, connecting ancestral homelands and Avi Kwa Lal in southern California just west of the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe’s Reservation, Palo Verde Peak in the proposed Chuckwalla National Monument, and Spirit Mountain in Nevada’s Avi Kwa Ame National Monument.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
These lands contain incredible cultural, ecological, recreational, scenic, and historic values that the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe is asking be preserved for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.
San Gabriel Mountains National Monument Expansion
WHAT IS IT
On June 26, 2023 Senator Alex Padilla and Representative Judy Chu called on President Biden to use the Antiquities Act to add 109,000 acres of public lands to the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians, and numerous cities, local elected officials, and residents have also urged the President to protect these public lands. On May 2, President Biden expanded the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument designation to include 109,000 additional acres of public land.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
The San Gabriel Mountains provide one-third of the drinking water and more than 70% of the open space in the Los Angeles region, an area with over 18 million residents - of whom Latinos make up the largest ethnic group. This expansion helps increase equitable access to nature and improve public health, conserve a critical drinking water source, address the climate and biodiversity crises, and honor the cultural and historical significance of the landscape.
Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion (Molok Luyuk)
WHAT IS IT
Last year, Senator Alex Padilla, the late Senator Dianne Feinstein, Representatives John Garamendi and Mike Thompson, and the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation called on President Biden to expand Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument using the Antiquities Act. On May 2, President Biden expanded the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to add 13,753 acres of public lands.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
The expansion helps safeguard lands that are sacred to the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, and preserves important wildlife corridors and the area’s distinct biodiversity. A key goal of this effort is also to establish co-management with federally recognized Tribes and to return to an Indigenous name for these lands - Molok Luyuk. Molok Luyuk is Patwin for “Condor Ridge” and is a name provided by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. Expanding the monument also helps ensure access to nature for the region’s significant number of Latino residents. Already, this area is beloved for outdoor activities and local organizations report full attendance for organized birdwatching and wildflower tours.
Glenda Gonzalez
Glenda works with the Hispanic Access Foundation as the Forestry Program Manager. A dedicated environmentalist, Glenda has spent her career working nationally and internationally in protecting our natural resources while championing community-led solutions. She has several years of experience in grant-making serving as a Grants Officer at the Rotary Foundation and the Global FoodBanking Network. Her early years include working in a community-based conservation effort in Kwale, Kenya and serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Bolivia and Panama. She received her B.A. in International Relations and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
“I've dedicated my career to missions that connect with my deep sense of purpose and commitment to environmental and community-focused well-being. I work for the Hispanic Access Foundation because they provide an outlet for this passion while elevating and supporting the Latino community.”
In her spare time…
“I love to take long runs along the Chicago Lakefront Trail and take photos of the sunrise.”
Her favorite book…
“ I enjoy reading all genres of books so it is hard to pick just one! I recently read The Book of Hope by Douglas Abrams and loved Jane Goodall's wisdom and vision for the future.”
A person she finds inspirational…
“Both of my parents. They inspire me to keep growing and encourage me to always be myself.”
Meggy Adorno
Meggy Adorno has over five years of experience in nonprofit development. Her expertise lies in grant management, digital fundraising, and event planning. In her previous role, she was responsible for spearheading grant acquisition efforts, managing the entire grant lifecycle from research and proposal development to compliance and reporting. She is passionate about leveraging her experience to drive impactful initiatives and contributing to the success of organizations committed to positive change, like the Hispanic Access Foundation.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"I work for Hispanic Access because of the organization's impressive accomplishments and dedication to advancing the Latino community."
In her spare time…
“In my spare time, I like to be with family and friends. I also enjoy trying new foods and going on walks with my dog.”
Her favorite book…
“The Alchemist by Paulo Cohelo.”
A person she finds inspirational…
“My sister.”
Angelica Juárez
Angelica's professional journey in the environmental sector was heavily influenced by her upbringing in South East LA. Living near an industrial city allowed her to witness firsthand how environmental injustices affect the most vulnerable members of our society - including her Latino community. Her work in environmental justice and grassroots efforts led her to the University of California Berkeley. There she obtained a dual degree in Molecular Environmental Biology and Environmental Economics and Policy.
Through her work as an Associate Consultant and Project Manager in the consulting sector, she helped US companies solve complex problems centered around sustainability. Finding herself one of the few people of color in these spaces, she decided to do a career shift and focus on DEI efforts. Prior to Hispanic Access, Angelica served as a Program Manager for the Traditional Trades Advancement Program (TTAP) where she helped connect diverse youth to trades internships with the National Park Service. She is excited to keep fighting the good fight, and increase the representation of BIPOC professionals in federal roles through the MANO Project.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"I work for Hispanic Access because I’m passionate about increasing the representation of BIPOC professionals in the environmental sector. The Latino community is deeply impacted by environmental injustices, so we deserve a seat at the table to advocate for our communities."
In her spare time…
“I enjoy hiking, traveling, yoga, and gathering recipes from different members of my family!”
Her favorite book…
“My favorite book would be “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson. Rachel’s ability to break down the complex relationship between chemicals in our environment and human health is fascinating. Picking up this book was the catalyst to my environmental career, so it holds a special place in my heart.”
A person she finds inspirational…
“My mother, Estela Barba.”
Evelyn Miguel
Evelyn Miguel is a second-generation Cuban American from Miami, FL. She has over 5 years of experience as an administrative professional, a photojournalist, and social media manager.
Upon graduation in May 2024, she will hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Women’s Studies and a minor in Mass Communications from the University of Florida.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"I work for Hispanic Access because their core values align with mine and I want to help empower and uplift the Latino community in any way I can."
In her spare time…
"In my spare time I like to practice my photography, go on walks, listen to music, and read.”
Her favorite book…
“My favorite book is Song for Olivia by Maruchi Mendez.”
A person she finds inspirational…
“My parents. They have accomplished so much since coming to the U.S., making many sacrifices to ensure my siblings and I had a fulfilling life.”
Angela Conde
Angela is a Fresno City College alumni who transferred to California State University, Chico where she studied Social Science:Specialization Studies option with concentrations in Sociology and Multicultural & Gender Studies. During her time in undergrad she was able to explore her interests in the outdoors more through hiking & camping in different local, state and national parks of Northern California; and through joining Latinas In Action (LIA)- a student group interested in connecting Latinas & increasing their access to the outdoors- she was able to connect her passion for connecting her community to the outdoors with a partnership through the U.S. Forest Service and LIA as a Nature Educator for 4th graders promoting the Every Kid Outdoors pass. Angela has experience in college ministry leadership, activism and civic advocacy, community based non-profits and asset based community development. During her time in the 2019-2020 Pink House Urban ministry cohort, in Fresno, California, she got more connected and involved with the work that eventually led her to Hispanic Access Foundation. Her most recent and formative work was in Fresno where she worked as part of the network of community & faith based non-profit organizations throughout the city, working in collaboration with resident leaders and some churches to improve equity, resident-led leadership, education and overall quality of life in the city.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"I wanted to work for Hispanic Access because I feel that their values are aligned with the life I am working to build for myself and family, and the work and communities I have gotten a chance to be part of in the last 5 years. It is the opportunity to continue practicing our personal philosophy and realize that we can also apply it to all aspects of our life to ensure that we continue to create a better world for us all, in our little part of the world."
In her spare time…
“In my personal time I like to spend time with my 1 year old daughter and husband, going to parks or visiting family on different road trips, trying new food places, watching movies, dancing in the kitchen with my baby as well, and listening to music, podcasts or audiobooks."
Her favorite book…
“ My favorite book of all time that I read in my early 20s is "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coehlo but I love reading about different subjects like liberation theology, social studies (in general), mental and emotional health, and books on parenting and spirituality. One book I am currently reading from my local library is "Decolonizing Christianity: Becoming Badass Believers" by Miguel A. De La Torre, and I just started listening to the great Isabel Allende's book "La casa de los espiritus" on audible.”
A person she finds inspirational…
“I think I have always found people who are resilient and able to overcome their particular life's challenges as an inspiration. But when I get to know people and hear their stories from them, I find new inspiration. Having said that, when I got to interview my maternal grandmother as part of my senior project in undergrad and hear her immigration story as a mother of 17 children, 13 of which are still alive, I learned so much more about the women who raised me and the great strength of quiet perseverance and passion for wanting a better life for yourself and your family, and making it happen by any means necessary."
Sharon Zavala
Sharon comes with eight years of significant grant management and community development experience working with federal, state, and local organizations both nationally and abroad, in different roles. She also has a proven track record of establishing and maintaining productive collaborations among multiple, diverse stakeholders with the sole purpose of driving impact. Her community development experience stems from helping low-income and historically underserved communities provide solutions to the array of challenges they face. From providing one-on-one domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy services for Spanish-speaking survivors to coordinating and conducting legal screenings of detained unaccompanied minors.
Before joining Hispanic Access Foundation, she administered the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Subrecipient Program under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which involved evaluating subrecipient applications, analyzing program performance benchmarks, writing agreements, and monitoring 16 agency projects. She is an AmeriCorps Alumni having served in migrant farmworker communities for two terms in South Florida. She was an intern at Instituto Nacional Contra la Discriminación y Racismo in Argentina and an intern at Via Organica in Mexico.
She holds a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration with a focus on Global Policy from Northwestern University and two Bachelor's degrees in Environmental Science and Spanish Literature from Allegheny College.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"The values of Hispanic Access Foundation align closely with my own on promoting equity, empowerment, and advocacy for Hispanic individuals and communities related to the diverse range of initiatives and commitment, in particular, issues of environmental conservation and climate action, all while helping serve a community."
In her spare time…
“I enjoy spending time outdoors as much as possible. I also like to stay informed about global affairs, regularly reading the news to stay up-to-date, but above all, I cherish quality time with my loved ones. Now, when I have a big chunk of spare time, I very much enjoy traveling--exploring new places, gaining new perspectives by experiencing different cultures. I’m currently dedicating some time to learning French!”
Her favorite book…
“Too many good ones to choose from, but I will say one of my favorites is: La mujer que buceó dentro del corazón del mundo, by Sabina Berman. I was lucky enough to dissect this book for my honors thesis in undergrad. This is a Spanish fiction piece that explores the story of an autistic woman named Karen Nieto who develops a deep connection with the environment and marine life. This is one of my favorites as it truly highlights the importance of our relationship with nature and the connection between humans and the environment.”
A person she finds inspirational…
“My mom is an incredible inspiration to me, embodying selflessness, love, strength, and resilience as she left her motherland with my dad and has worked tirelessly, making numerous sacrifices, to support our family.”
Laura Wood
Laura Wood is serving as a Grants Assistant Navigator for Hispanic Access Foundation from Fort Worth, Texas. Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in Management degree and is an MBA candidate for December 2025. She has a professional background in sales, fundraising, marketing, and project management spanning 20 years. After 11 years in corporate sales, she joined the non-profit world professionally with The Nature Conservancy of Texas serving as Associate Director of Philanthropy for four and half years. In 2009 she took over her family’s foundation named in honor of her grandmother Dorothy Marcille Wood, a lifelong West Texas rancher who made a big impact on her and her love for the land. In this capacity Laura consulted with numerous public and private agencies as an extension arm for board management, strategic planning, event planning, fundraising and marketing. In her targeted efforts working with endangered species management, 1 million acres were conserved across West Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Since then, Laura has facilitated over 20 million dollars through grant writing, capital campaigns and endowment growth.
As a volunteer, she served as the youngest President of Lena Pope Home, Inc, in its 80 year history, Secretary and Fundraising Chair for the Texas Land Trust Council, and is currently Membership Chair for the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"I work for Hispanic Access because I am passionate about empowering those impacted the most to receive the abundant resources available to combat climate change. Hispanic Access is a team of professional, accessible, brilliant individuals who care and know how to get the money to those who need it most."
In her spare time…
“In my spare time I mostly cook, travel every chance I can, and play cards."
Her favorite book…
“If I had to pick a favorite it would be Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés' Women Who Run with the Wolves. It opened up the storyteller in me and set me on a life-long quest to be authentic and remain wild."
A person she finds inspirational…
“I'm a tennis lover, and Billie Jean King's trailblazing for women in sports has been and will always remain an inspiration for me to do hard things.”
Marilyn Saenz
Marilyn is a Los Angeles native and first-generation Mexican American with a ten-year residency in South Texas. Marilyn has over six years of experience in the nonprofit sector through socio-economic programs serving the Hispanic population, low-income BIPOC households and at-risk youth within the Central Texas Area. Marilyn has tackled community challenges alongside faith-based partnerships such as Catholic Charities, Haven for Hope and Communities in School of South Texas.
Prior to joining Hispanic Access, Marilyn served under the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services through their foster care program at Upbring. She managed federal, state and local compliance, empowering minority youth social services and ensuring adequate care from local stakeholders towards their holistic wellbeing.
She also currently serves as Co-founder of Saenz & Company, an agroforestry and sustainable asset management firm.
Marilyn earned a B.A. in Sociology with a focus on social global change and social inequality, and a B.A. in English, with International English Honors from St. Mary’s University at San Antonio.
Why she works for Hispanic Access…
"As a Texan, the heat is no stranger! While witnessing its extreme heat and below average winter temperatures, my passion in the past couple of years has shifted to the underlying causes and efforts to net-zero, and therefore, the lack of resources many have encountered in the center of extreme weather, air quality and urban planning. When coming across Hispanic Access, I was called to their intersectional programs for upholding all operations in the value of engagement and benefit to Hispanic/BIPOC communities. I was excited to join an organization where I didn’t have to compromise between the two and create an impact within society and sustainability."
In her spare time…
“In my spare time I enjoy learning new healthy recipes, spending time with family and our cats, watching TV series and reading articles about sustainability or international politics.”
Her favorite book…
“I don’t necessarily have a favorite, but some that quickly come to mind are Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, Dracula by Bram Stoker, Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis and more recently everything from Joan Didion."
A person she finds inspirational…
“My brother. As children to immigrant parents, we saw the immense hardships they faced while creating the magic and laughter of our childhood with the little that we had. He has guided me to be the best version of myself, academically and professionally in honor of the sacrifices our parents have made. I am eternally grateful for my family’s love, support and encouragement!”
Manuel Guzman
Manuel was born and raised in Santiago, Dominican Republic, but now lives in the Bronx, NY. As a Salesforce developer Manuel brings all the tools necessary to automate, innovate and integrate solutions with Salesforce.
Ever since early childhood he has been passionate about technology, traveling and helping others. Moving to the United States of America following the American dream he embarked on B.S in Computer Science in CUNY graduating from Borough of Manhattan Community College(BMCC) and Lehman College. During this educational journey he discovered Salesforce; how powerful it is and decided to specialize in it by obtaining his Salesforce Platform Developer 1 certification.
The passion, curiosity and the desire to help others have guided and propelled Manuel into this moment and position and he is happy being able to work with technology helping people fulfilling his purpose in life.
Why he works for Hispanic Access…
"I work for the Hispanic Access Foundation because from a very early age I wanted to be part of something bigger, something that left a positive impact in my immediate communities. Likewise my passion for technology was encouraged by my innate curiosity of how things work. The Hispanic Access Foundation provides me with the work environment and challenges that allows me to do all of the above and that's why we are a great fit."
In his spare time…
“In my spare time I am usually working on my goals for the week since I am a goal driven person. Some of these goals could be things like obtaining the ranger trailhead title by completing modules and earning more badges. Besides that I also like to relax and watch tv shows and play some games.”
His favorite book…
“Don Quixote by Miguel De Cervantes.”
A person he finds inspirational…
“I find Keanu Reeves a very inspirational person and I don't mean the characters he plays in movies. Keanu Reeves is a very stoic and resilient person that has gone through so many hardships but he still chooses kindness over anger. Aside from that he is a very humble person which is one of the key values that makes me interested in people.”