**We demand an immediate stop to the buyouts for and construction of a sports stadium at the New Mexico State Fairgrounds.

**We demand MEANINGFUL community engagement with the residents of the International District to determine what happens at the state fairgrounds and in their neighborhoods as a whole.

The vibrant International District so many call home is being threatened by the looming shadow of a massive so-called "revitalization" construction project — a sports stadium at the New Mexico State Fairgrounds in Albuquerque that no one asked for. The International District is a community where bonds are strong and residents care deeply about their neighbors and their environment. It's also the most low-income, disenfranchised area of our city, one that faces countless challenges daily.

The proposal to build a stadium here promises neither revitalization nor prosperity for the locals. Instead, it threatens gentrification from rising rents, and will force people out of their businesses through eminent domain. Traffic congestion and noise pollution will invade the daily lives of the residents, who only want to make their neighborhoods safer and more community-centered for their families and neighbors.

We know putting a sports stadium in the ID, where many residents won't be able to afford to attend, is not going to help our neighbors or our environment - it will only make matters worse.

This stadium represents more than just a sporting venue; it continues the prioritization of profit over people and the environment. Public funds — which could be used to truly uplift and empower our community by funding all participatory budgeting projects proposed in the International District — are at risk of being allocated to benefitting a select few wealthy individuals whose real goal is to acquire public money for private development to take over our state.

Why should taxpayer money line the pockets of millionaires?

The people of the International District deserve a real say, and investment that truly serves their needs, focused on community-centered projects and infrastructure. Initiatives should aim to provide affordable housing, accessible addiction and mental health treatment, quality local jobs (not part-time stadium jobs without benefits), enhanced public infrastructure, and support for neighborhood associations and small businesses.

The solution isn't a stadium but thoughtful investment in social programs, educational projects, and green spaces that enhance the quality of life for all residents, similar to the Alleyway Activation Project initiated by the South San Pedro Neighborhood Association.

We call upon the current and incoming governor, the Fairgrounds District Board members, city planners, and all stakeholders to listen to the voices of International District residents and business owners. We ask for an immediate halt to this stadium project. Let us collectively envision and implement a redevelopment plan that advances the well-being of all, reflecting the core values of community, inclusivity, and true democracy.

Sign this petition to stand against the construction of the stadium at the New Mexico State Fairgrounds. Join us in our fight for a brighter, more equitable future for the International District. Together, we can win!