This tree planting is part of a collaboration between the city of Glenwood Springs, Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers, and the Wilderness Workshop. It’s all to celebrate Latino Conservation Week, happening from September 13-21. This week shines a light on the Latino community’s bond with the outdoors while addressing environmental stewardship.
The current political climate has made celebrations like these more important. Growing immigration enforcement is causing concern. Alejandro Jaquez-Caro, who leads Wilderness Workshop’s Latino outreach, notes that smaller events are safer and help build connections within the community. “People often get distracted by national events and social media,” he explains. “But our community is a real strength.”
Olivia Juarez, public lands program director at GreenLatinos, highlights how policies can impact access to outdoor spaces. A recent secretarial order allows funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund to be used for surveillance in parks, raising concerns about safety for people of color. “When resources are directed toward monitoring rather than preservation, it makes outdoor spaces feel unsafe,” they say.
Cathy recognizes these fears in her community. Many hesitate to attend events labeled as “Latino” due to worries about immigration issues. “There’s a lot of misinformation causing anxiety,” she says. These concerns amplify the need to celebrate Latino Conservation Week, reflecting on cultural connections to nature in a safe environment.
Alejandro hopes that projects like tree planting inspire more people to engage with nature. “Seeing these trees grow can instill pride. It might encourage families to explore more, go hiking, or camping together,” he says.
Cathy is particularly passionate about environmental issues, especially with increasing drought concerns in Colorado—a reality her family in Chihuahua, Mexico knows all too well. “Water isn’t always accessible there. It’s a luxury here that we often take for granted,” she explains. She takes joy in watching Alex enjoy the outdoors, whether it’s floating down the river or jumping in with his life jacket.
By reconnecting with nature and each other, events like this help strengthen community ties and foster a greater understanding of environmental stewardship.
For more information on Latino Conservation Week and resources for outdoor activities, check out the Wilderness Workshop and Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers.