I recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in Wilderness Week hosted by the Alaska Wilderness League, the Sierra Club and the Audubon Society. Along with concerned citizens from across the country, I learned about the current issues facing the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the Arctic Ocean, heard from indigenous Arctic leaders and lobbied a number of members of Congress for the Arctic Wilderness.
Maintaining the wilderness and the sustainable life in the Arctic region is vital. The native people depend on the migrating caribou and birds for sustenance. It is vital to maintain this wilderness into perpetuity to preserve the sustainable cycle of life in the Arctic. Before this past week, I wasn’t aware that a gallon of milk costs over $10, representing the high cost of store-bought food for the native people in the Arctic region.
My experience in Washington was truly important. Teaming up with fellow advocates, as well as Alaskans, we visited our senators and representatives to share our concerns. I am grateful for Rep. Kuster and Sen. Shaheen and their staffs for taking the time to meet with the group. It is unfortunate that Sen. Ayotte and her staff would not respond to our request for a meeting to share our concerns.
It is vital that the Refuge and the Coastal Plain be designated permanent wilderness within HR 239 and S. Bill 2341. Thanks to Kuster and Shaheen for standing with us.
Carol Perera Weingeist
Hanover