Episode Summary: Join host Chris Clarke in this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles" as he delves into the crucial humanitarian efforts of Laurie Cantillo and Humane Borders. As the border challenges unfold, Laurie discusses her organization's mission to provide life-saving water stations in the desert for migrants facing extreme peril during their journey to the United States. This episode sheds light on the often-misunderstood realities of border crossings and the humanitarian responses necessary to combat these challenges. Through vibrant storytelling, Laurie Cantillo and Chris Clarke engage in a candid discussion about the evolving landscape of the U.S.-Mexico border, addressing widespread misconceptions and the dire need for compassion and accurate representation of migrants. The conversation highlights the devastating impact of border policies and the unyielding resolve of those risking their lives for a chance at a better future. With insights into borderland human rights, as well as environmental concerns caused by border militarization, this episode offers an in-depth exploration of the human and ecological costs associated with the border crisis.

Key Takeaways:

• Humane Borders provides life-saving water stations across the Sonoran Desert to support migrants, hikers, and even wildlife, confronting the severe drought conditions and inhumane border policies.
• Contrary to this administration's narrative, migrants crossing the desert to seek asylum are not an "invasion," but rather families and individuals fleeing violence and economic instability.
• The concept of "prevention through deterrence" initiated by the U.S. government did not deter crossings but instead caused thousands of migrant deaths since its implementation.
• Laurie emphasizes the stark reality that many Americans are misinformed about migrant communities, which are less prone to crime and more likely to contribute positively to society.
• Initiatives like Humane Borders represent nonpartisan, humanitarian efforts focused on human dignity and environmental responsibility amidst geopolitical complexities at the border.

Notable Quotes:

“We're all human. We all need water.” - Laurie Cantillo

“The government knew at the time that people would die, but did not expect it to occur at the scale that's happening.” - Laurie Cantillo

“I would much rather have as my neighbor someone who would cross the desert to become a U.S. citizen than someone who just wants to slam the door shut on people in need.” - Laurie Cantillo

“The only fear I ever have at the border is from far right militia and vigilante groups.” - Laurie Cantillo

“The wall will fall down of its own accord. Probably before I do.” - Chris Clarke

Resources:

Humane Borders Website: humaneborders.org
Humane Borders' mortality map: https://humaneborders.info/app/map.asp

Border Angels: Organization mentioned that helps families find missing loved ones. Website: https://www.borderangels.org/

Comparing crime rates between undocumented immigrants, legal immigrants, and native-born US citizens in Texas; Light et al, PNAS.org, https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2014704117

Dive deeper into this episode to discover the revealing insights Laurie Cantillo shares about border issues, humanitarian crisis, and the heightened militarization impacting both human lives and biodiversity at the U.S.-Mexico border.

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Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke sits down with Teal Lehto, a passionate water rights activist also known on social media as Western Water Girl. Teal shares insights into her work on public lands protection, the challenges posed by current legislative threats to environment-focused organizations, and the critical issues facing the Colorado River Basin. The episode delves deep into the complexities of water politics across Southwestern U.S. deserts. Teal discusses the antiquated water usage system governed by the doctrine of prior appropriation and its impact on current water scarcities. The conversation explores the political stand-off between upper and lower basin states within the Colorado River framework, highlighting the contentious role agriculture, particularly alfalfa farming, plays in the ongoing water crisis. Reflecting on her journey from frustrated activist to social media influencer, Teal elucidates how she has become a vital communicator of water issues, navigating both support and the vitriol commonly aimed at women in digital spaces.

Key Takeaways:

Advocacy Amidst Executive Orders: Teal explores current executive orders threatening public lands and non-profit environmental groups, emphasizing their purpose to dismantle the protections that keep these landscapes safe.

Colorado River Basin Stalemate: The historical water distribution system faces scrutiny as upper and lower basin states stall on new guidelines essential for preserving water resources.

Social Media as a Platform for Change: Teal's rise as Western Water Girl began as a reaction to being sidelined; now she uses Instagram and TikTok to educate thousands on water issues.

Prominent Issues in Water Management: The widespread impact of alfalfa farming on water resources underlines a significant yet under-addressed element of Western water politics.

The Influence of Engaging Narratives: Authentic content creation on TikTok significantly impacts environmental communication, allowing Western Water Girl to reach and inspire a broad audience.

Notable Quotes:

"I never started my platform expecting it to blow up. Like, I literally told my partner that if five people see my video, it'll make me feel better." - Teal Lehto

"You can actually have a pretty direct impact on what side of the Internet somebody's content goes to just by leaving a comment." - Teal Lehto

"People are really into engaging with water equity because it's so mind-blowing to learn the Navajo Nation only has running water in one out of each three homes." - Teal Lehto

Resources:

Teal Lehto on Social Media: Follow @westernwatergirl on TikTok and Instagram for updates and education on water politics.

90 Miles from Needles Podcast Website: For more episodes and donation opportunities, visit 90MilesFromNeedles.com (https://90milesfromneedles.com).

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke is joined by author Barret Baumgart. The conversation centers around Baumgart's book "Yuck," which explores the peculiar and iconic Joshua Tree. From its historical misunderstandings and numerous failed attempts to capitalize on the plant, to its symbolic resistance against commodification, the chat offers a fresh perspective on the interaction between humans and this resilient desert species. The episode also leaps into broader themes of environmental justice and political critique, with Chris Clarke expressing strong views on contemporary socio-political issues affecting the natural world. The juxtaposition of Baumgart's insights into the Joshua Tree's defiance against use and Clarke's vehement declaration against destructive political practices not only enriches listeners' understanding of desert ecology but also encourages active engagement in environmental advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

Nature's Resistance: The Joshua Tree has repeatedly thwarted attempts to be commercially exploited, symbolizing nature's stubbornness.

Historical Perspectives: Early explorers and settlers often misunderstood and disparaged the Joshua Tree, seeing it as unattractive and offensive.

Environmental and Political Rants: Host Chris Clarke passionately criticizes the contemporary political landscape, likening destructive policies of the Trump administration to historical atrocities.

Genre Blending in Writing: Baumgart discusses his unique approach to blending fact with narrative creativity, challenging traditional environmental writing norms. Call for Activism: The episode strongly encourages activism, urging listeners to oppose the US's current authoritarian regime due to its flgrant disregard for environmental and human rights.

Notable Quotes:
"There's something really deep and beautiful in that, without getting too reverent." "I have avoided traps I don't want to fall into."
"Being this infuriated for this long gets exhausting."
"History isn't written by people who gave up; it's written by people who stayed angry, stayed stubborn."
"I think it is immoral to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement."

Resources:

Barrett Baumgart's personal website: barrettbaumgart.com

Information about his book, "Yuck: The Birth and Death of the Weird and Wondrous Joshua Tree," can be found by visiting 90 Miles from Needles' dedicated page: 90milesfromneedles.com/yuck

Listeners are encouraged to explore these resources further and join the ongoing conversation about desert protection and preservation. Tune in to the full episode for more insights and stories, and stay informed with future releases from the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast for more thought-provoking and inspiring content.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.