Statement: Today we are witnessing an unprecedented attack on our public lands, despite more than 100 years of bipartisan work to protect this country’s parks, waters, mountains and forests.
Dec 4, 2017
This is a direct blow to tens of millions of Americans from all backgrounds, who cherish and enjoy life outdoors. The Administration’s deal with the Utah delegation to undo past presidents’ monument designations hurts the people who love these places and threatens the $887 billion outdoor economy. We are not alone in this view. The public was asked to speak up and 2.8 million Americans responded. More than 99 percent advocated for protecting national monuments. The truth is that our voices have fallen on deaf ears.
REI will not retreat from our strong belief that there is common ground in the outdoors. We will continue to pursue bipartisan support to protect public lands and prevent death by a thousand cuts. REI members can be assured that we will honor our shared passion for our public lands, dedicating time and resources to leaving them healthier for future generations.
About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 181 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.