Grand Canyon Escalade facts for kids
The Grand Canyon Escalade was a big entertainment project that was planned for the eastern edge of the Grand Canyon. This area is part of the Navajo Nation's land.
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What Was the Grand Canyon Escalade Project?
The Grand Canyon Escalade was meant to be a large complex for visitors. It would have included a hotel, shops, and a gondola lift. This gondola would take people down to the Colorado River and Little Colorado River. The place where these two rivers meet is called a confluence. This specific confluence is a very special and sacred place for many Native American tribes.
Where Was It Going to Be Built?
The proposed site was on the Navajo Nation's land. It was located near the point where the Colorado River and the Little Colorado River join together. This area is known for its natural beauty and cultural importance.
Why Was This Project Proposed?
Developers from Scottsdale, a city in Arizona, suggested this project. They said it would bring a lot of money and jobs to the Navajo Nation. They believed it would attract many tourists to the eastern Grand Canyon.
Why Did People Oppose the Project?
Many people and groups strongly disagreed with the idea of building the Grand Canyon Escalade. They had several important reasons for their opposition.
Many members of the Navajo Nation living near the proposed site were against the project. They worried about several things:
- Protecting Nature: They were concerned about how the project would affect the environment. This included the plants, animals, and water in the area.
- Economic Impact: Some worried that the project might not truly benefit local Navajo communities. They felt it could harm traditional ways of life.
- Spiritual Importance: The area near the river confluence is very sacred to the Navajo people. They felt that building a large complex there would disrespect their spiritual beliefs and heritage.
Opposition from Other Groups
Other groups also spoke out against the Grand Canyon Escalade:
- The Hopi Tribe: The Hopi people also consider the area around the Little Colorado River confluence to be very sacred. They completely opposed the project because it would disturb this holy site.
- National Park Service: The National Park Service, which manages the Grand Canyon National Park, also opposed the development. They were concerned about the impact on the natural landscape and visitor experience.
- Conservationists: Many groups dedicated to protecting nature wanted to keep the area wild. They believed the project would damage the Grand Canyon's unique environment.
How Was the Project Stopped?
The strong opposition led to a significant decision. Many people signed a petition asking the Navajo Nation leaders to vote on the project.
In October 2017, the Navajo Nation Council held a special meeting. The Council is the main governing body of the Navajo Nation. After much discussion, the Council members voted on the Grand Canyon Escalade project. The vote was 16 against the project and only 2 in favor. This vote officially stopped the Grand Canyon Escalade from being built.
