Fate of Gila River Mustangs sparks community outcry

Every few years, the Gila River Indian Community rounds up their Mustang herds, separating them and sending some to the Pacific Livestock Auction in Chandler. There they are sold, some to be rescued — and some to be slaughtered.

Wild horses are protected on federal and state lands, but the Gila River Indian Community actually owns these Mustangs. According to the tribe, this is their way of managing the herd’s growth. It is also a source of income for them.

“We are all concerned by the fact that this story has received virtually no media coverage,” explained local resident Michelle Leu. “We are not asking for any news channel or radio station to become a crusader for animal rights, but we believe that the Mustangs are a part of our shared heritage, and that the people of our state and community have a right to know what is happening to them.”

Leu added, “I drive through the Gila River Indian Community every day on my way to and from work in Phoenix. Every now and then, I will catch a glimpse of the wild Mustangs that roam the reservation. They are truly beautiful creatures — living, enduring symbols of Arizona’s western heritage.”

Many Maricopians are showing an interest in the plight of these Mustangs. The topic is being avidly discussed on inmaricopa.com’s Open Forum in a thread called “Help Save the Gila River Mustangs.”