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For Immediate Release
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Virginia Cramer, 804-519-8449, virginia.cramer@sierraclub.org

Sierra Club Praises National Monument Designations

WASHINGTON

President Obama Thursday is expected to designate three new national monuments-- Pullman Historic Site in Illinois, birthplace of the first African-American union in America; Honouliuli Internment Camp in Hawai'i, the largest prisoner-of-war camp and longest-used World War II internment camp in Hawai'i; and Browns Canyon in Colorado, a premier trout fishing and outdoor recreation destination.

In expectation, Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune issued the following statement.

"We applaud President Obama for taking steps to expand our nation's outdoor heritage by ensuring our public lands and national monuments tell the full story of the country's rich cultural and natural history.

"These monuments embody the span of historic, cultural, and natural wonders that make up our nation's outdoor legacy. President Obama's action is both recognition of their importance and assurance that they will remain as places of remembrance, historic contributions, and inspiration for our children.

"It's heartening to see President Obama once again help local communities protect valuable pieces of America. We look forward to more progress in making America's public lands better serve the diversity and interests of the American people."

The Sierra Club is the most enduring and influential grassroots environmental organization in the United States. We amplify the power of our 3.8 million members and supporters to defend everyone's right to a healthy world.

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