HECHO Statement on the Passing of Congressman Raúl Grijalva

It is with profound sadness that we at HECHO mourn the passing of Congressman Raúl Grijalva, a tireless champion for conservation, public lands, and the communities that depend on them. His leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to people and public lands are his enduring legacy, one that will be felt for generations.

He played an integral role in securing lasting protections for places like the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument, an effort that safeguarded nearly 1 million acres in the Grand Canyon watershed. He championed the Great Bend of the Gila National Monument Establishment Act which sought to protect culturally significant and ecologically vital lands in Arizona. He was also a steadfast defender of Oak Flat, standing firmly against efforts to allow foreign mining interests destroy this sacred site.

Throughout his decades of public service, Congressman Grijalva fought to ensure that conservation efforts upheld the fundamental right of all people to live in communities with clean air, clean water, and access to public lands or open spaces.

He was a man of deep warmth and conviction. He had a rare ability to truly listen—making people feel heard, valued, and understood—while standing firmly by his beliefs and fighting for what was right. He refused to compromise on the principles and people he was fighting for.

He understood that conservation is not just about protecting land and water—it’s about protecting people, history, and traditions. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy will endure in the policies he championed and the lives he touched.

Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and the many communities he fought for. At HECHO, we will honor his tenacious spirit as we continue to advocate for the protection of our lands, waters, and communities in his honor.

Rest in peace, Congressman.