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Colorado River Gains Legal Personhood Amid Drought Crisis

11/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Colorado River Indian Tribes in Arizona and California voted to grant the Colorado River legal personhood to protect it amid overuse and drought.
Chairwoman Amelia Flores, chair of the Colorado River Indian Tribes, says the designation reflects cultural values and secures the river's health and Arizona's senior water rights.
The move is part of the broader rights of nature movement, including the Lake Erie Bill of Rights.

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Story summary

The Colorado River Indian Tribes in Arizona and California voted to grant the Colorado River legal personhood to protect it amid overuse and drought.
Chairwoman Amelia Flores, chair of the Colorado River Indian Tribes, says the designation reflects cultural values and secures the river's health and Arizona's senior water rights.
The move is part of the broader rights of nature movement, including the Lake Erie Bill of Rights.