Congratulations to DACU team members Shana Bachus and John Hamilton, who have been leading efforts to adopt Gallagher Park. On September 8, they spearheaded a celebration to unveil the new Adopt-A-Spot plaque at the park. The morning included a quick park clean-up (many hands made light work!), a brief presentation, a tasty early lunch, and conversation about how to make the neighborhood an even better place. City staff and elected officials were in attendance, along with residents young in age and young at heart.

These activities at the park complemented discussion a week earlier at the August 27 City Council meeting, when three DACU members and other members of the public encouraged the City to refrain from using pesticides. As a result, the mayor directed staff to prepare an accounting of pesticide use and expenses. We look forward to continuing our efforts to get the City to adopt an Integrated Pest Management policy.

Last week, three DACU members traveled to Gallup and surrounding areas for the quarterly core partner meeting of the NM Health Equity Partnership. We learned about the inspiring work carried out by our sister organizations in McKinley and San Juan Counties to advance health equity. Site tours to areas affected by uranium mining and fracking sparked reflection and thoughtful conversation. The group also visited a farm focused on building soil health and engaged in discussion about issues of sobriety and race. We are honored to stand with our colleagues and the Diné people as they work to reverse the detrimental effects of generations of injustice. 

Percy, Frances, and Victoria enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast in the Skeet Farm hogan.