Sun Safety in Jemez Pueblo: A Year-Round Responsibility

In Jemez Pueblo, the sun is part of our daily rhythm — rising over our red mesas, warming our fields and trails, to the days of ceremonial gatherings. But with our high elevation and strong, steady sunshine, comes something we all need to stay mindful of: ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

You don’t have to be near a beach to feel the effects of UV exposure. At over 5,600 feet above sea level, the sun’s rays in Jemez are more intense — even on cloudy days or during cooler months. Over time, too much unprotected sun can damage skin and eyes, leading to early aging and long-term health concerns like skin cancer. And this can happen to anyone — whether it’s a child walking home from school, a teen playing sports, or an adult working outside or tending to traditional practices.

The goal isn’t to avoid the sun — it’s to understand how to live safely with it. In the coming week, we’ll be sharing simple, culturally mindful ways to protect yourself and your family — with tips that fit the land, the lifestyle, and the people of Jemez.

Because here in our community, taking care of our health is one more way we honor ourselves, our ancestors, and each other.