Native American Church members continue legal fight to protect Yanaguana sacred site

Two Lipan Apache Native American Church members are pursuing federal court protection for trees and birds at Yanaguana, a sacred site along the San Antonio River’s headwaters, according to ICT. The city of San Antonio has sought to remove trees and disperse migratory birds, including cormorants, citing failing retaining walls and public health concerns related to bird guano. The Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals previously ruled the city must allow church members access to the riverbend and placed a temporary stay on tree removal for religious purposes. However, the Texas Supreme Court ruled the city can address public health and safety hazards despite religious protections. Plaintiffs Gary Perez and Matilde Torres argue the birds pose no health risk and that immediate tree removal is unnecessary. They plan to continue the legal battle and possibly take the case to the U.S. Supreme Court, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the site’s spiritual and ecological integrity.