Ernest M. Vallo Jr.

Speaking in English and in Keresan, Acoma tribal elder Ernest Vallo describes the importance of Chaco Canyon to his people. Standing in Pueblo Bonito and at Casa Rinconada, Mr. Vallo relates how Acoma ancestors were part of the gathering of peoples at Chaco before they continued on their migrations. Mr. Vallo describes the clans that make up the Acoma people today. He emphasizes the importance of water for the Acoma, and he voices the particular concern that oil and gas drilling in the Chaco area may contaminate the water—a critical resource that needs to be protected. Mr. Vallo encourages young people to learn about Chaco and participate in consultation with the park service. He issues a plea for the public and for government agencies to respect, preserve, and protect the archaeology of greater Chaco.

Mr. Vallo was filmed speaking in Chaco Canyon in October 2017, together with Mr. William B. Tsosie Jr., a Diné archaeologist (see chapter 8). Mr. Vallo and Mr. Tsosie come together in mutual respect and cooperation to emphasize how important it is for Native peoples to put aside their differences. Both men emphasize that cooperation is needed to help protect the water, the air, and the earth from oil and gas development.