Adelita Grijalva Takes Stand Against Border Wall Construction in Arizona
Recently sworn-in Democrat Adelita Grijalva wasted no time in her congressional duties, visiting a contentious border area in Arizona shortly after her inauguration. Her first stop as a congresswoman was the San Rafael Valley, a remote and biodiverse region within her district.
Standing on a rugged path, Grijalva addressed a gathering of onlookers, stating, “This is my official first day of visits in Arizona, in CD7, and I couldn’t imagine a place I’d rather be.” Her statement was made against the backdrop of vehicle barriers marking the U.S.-Mexico border and the looming presence of a newly constructed 30-foot steel bollard wall.
Following her visit to Douglas, Grijalva participated in a protest against the border wall construction, organized by local advocacy groups. Proudly displaying her congressional lapel, which she had received just two days prior, Grijalva expressed her opposition to the project.
“It is fighting against these types of projects, that’s the reason why I’m in D.C.,” she stated. “None of this should be grazed, none of this should be disturbed. This is a place that should be pristine.” The San Rafael Valley is renowned for its ecological significance, supporting endangered species like jaguars and ocelots. The Trump administration’s plans to extend the wall for 27 miles threaten this habitat.
Grijalva criticized the wall construction as ineffective for immigration control, calling it “just a show of force.” She emphasized the community’s immigrant roots and its critical ports of entry with Mexico. “This is CD7, and when we’re looking at what this administration is doing specifically to target people and our land, I have to add my voice in opposition,” Grijalva asserted.
She also revealed her intention to reintroduce her late father’s legislative efforts to combat such construction projects. Meanwhile, environmental organizations have filed a lawsuit challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s waivers of environmental laws aimed at expediting the construction. Despite the legal challenge, development continues as the case proceeds through the courts.
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