Dear President Joe Biden,

I am writing this petition to bring your attention to the importance of designating the International Friendship Park on the U.S.-Mexico border in California as a national monument, pursuant to the Antiquities Act of 1906. This historic landmark holds immense significance as a cherished meeting place for friends and families who have been physically separated due to U.S. immigration policies.

As an individual deeply affected by these policies, I have close friends who have resided in the United States for over three decades, contributing significantly to American society. However, they were unjustly deported and are now unable to return home or reunite with their families due to restrictive federal immigration policies.

The International Friendship Park serves as the only place where loved ones can meet face-to-face and interact in person. It provides them with a precious opportunity to maintain their relationships despite being physically separated by borders. The park has become a symbol of hope, love, and unity amidst challenging circumstances.

Moreover, while Mexico has already developed its side of the borderland into an inviting space for visitors and locals alike, it is crucial that we transfer ownership of the federal land on our side of the border to the Department of Interior. By doing so, we can ensure proper preservation and maintenance of this significant site.

Additionally, it is worth noting that this location holds historical value as it is home to the first granite border monument to mark the boudary between  Mexico and the United States established pursuant to the historic treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Preserving this landmark will not only honor its historical significance but also serve as a reminder that friendship knows no boundaries.

The site meets all of the criteria set forth by the Antiquities Act, and more than qualifies for nation monument status....a deisgnation that is long overdue.   FThe Antiquities Act was enacted in order to protect historic federal proporties of national significance for future generations.   Customs and Border Protection has neglected to maintain or preserve the site, prevented public access, and have destroyed physical improvemements and allowing the landmark to deteriorate.  The International Friendship Park should be managed by the federal agency that specializes in parks and land managment.   Park Rangers are better suited to patrol the site, allowing Border Patrol agents to return to immigration and customs enformcment.

By designating International Friendship Park as a national monument under your administration's leadership through executive action under Section 2(a) of The Antiquities Act (16 U.S.C 431), we can protect this invaluable space from potential threats such as commercial development or neglect.

In support of this petition, I urge you to consider the following facts:

1. The International Friendship Park has been a vital meeting place for families and friends separated by immigration policies.
2. Mexico has already developed its side of the borderland, highlighting the significance of preserving and enhancing our side as well.
3. The park holds historical value as the site of the first granite border monument between Mexico and the United States.
4.  There is NO oppostition to degnation of this site as national monument.  The action will not require expenditure of federal funds for land acquisition.

   
I kindly request that you take immediate action to designate International Friendship Park as a national monument, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. This act will not only provide solace to countless families but also symbolize our commitment to unity, compassion, and friendship.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Peter Bryan

Member

www.buildthatpark.org/