Lecture

“Rock Art, Cliff Dwellings, and the Battle over Bears Ears” – William Lipe

Friday, October 26, 2018 at 6 p.m.

Location: Benes B, Hamilton-Williams Campus Center

In his presentation, Bill Lipe will show examples of the rock art and architectural treasures of the Bears Ears National Monument. This area, located on federal public lands in Utah, is internationally renowned for these treasures but is currently under threat of having its protected status revoked. Dr. Lipe will discuss the scholarly and public importance of these culturally significant sites, as well as the threats they face by visitors unaware of their fragility. These concerns are shared by the tribal coalition, which also is pressing for more access to visit traditional sacred sites and to make use of traditionally important plants and animals. Lipe, who has done archaeological research in the Bears Ears area for over 50 years, will conclude by discussing what is needed to ensure future protection of the archaeological, artistic, and cultural heritage values of the areas.