Today, as GIS users and developers around the world share and showcase their work, Congressman John Curtis (R-UT), co-lead of the House GIS Working Group, released the following statement after introducing a resolution in support of National GIS Day today.  Click here for resolution.

“Geographic Information System (GIS) technology has revolutionized our world, from the ways governments at every level create programs and prioritize funding, to how we get from point A to point B using an app on our phone. This year especially, GIS has been critical to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, deploying broadband to Rural America, and mapping the wildfires we have seen in the West,” said Curtis. “As the Republican sponsor of the House GIS Working Group, I am proud to introduce a resolution recognizing November 18, 2020 as National GIS Day to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of GIS developers and users. Without this important technology, we would be missing a vital tool in solving today’s societal and environmental problems.”

Statements of Support

Mark W. Brooks, President, MAPPS: “In short, GIS allows us to make more informed decisions that help to better our world… I can think of no better means to educate Congress – and the general public – about geospatial issues than a resolution recognizing the many benefits of GIS data and the geospatial profession. I applaud you for your commitment to GIS issues and commend you for introducing your resolution designating November 18, 2020, as “National GIS Day.” On behalf of MAPPS, its member firms, and individuals involved in the geospatial profession, I thank you for your efforts and am grateful for your leadership.” (click here for full letter)

Jack Dangermond, President, Esri: “I want to thank Congressman Curtis for introducing the House GIS Day Resolution and for his leadership on geospatial issues on Capitol Hill.  Geographic Information Systems play a critical role in the work of government agencies, businesses, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and organizations of all types.  These technologies have helped us confront the Covid-19 pandemic and are driving substantial economic growth across the nation and globally.  I applaud the House of Representatives for recognizing their value.”

Molly Schar, Executive Director, National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC): “GIS is critical to delivering and improving government services at all levels of government, in areas ranging from public health and emergency response to natural resource management, transportation planning, and much more. Today, our members celebrate National GIS Day, as state government Geospatial Information Officers and statewide GIS coordinators, local government GIS managers, federal agency partners, private sector solution-providers, and colleagues across the geospatial community.” 

Gary Langham, Executive Director, American Association of Geographers (AAG): "The American Association of Geographers (AAG) would like to thank Congressman Curtis for his leadership on this year's GIS Day resolution. As we reflect on the Geospatial Data Act two years after its passage, we are reminded of the critical foundation that the Act established to better coordinate between government agencies and to allow procurement of expertise from across the full range of the rapidly growing US geographic and geospatial community. While there is work still to be done, GIS Day is an important milestone that recognizes the vital role geography plays in solving real world problems and in educating a future generation of leaders and civically engaged individuals."  

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