The Trump administration plan threatens the sacred Oak Flat site in Arizona where mining company wants to mine on Indigenous land. The Western Apache tribe uses Oak Flat for sacred ceremonies and connection to their religion, history, and culture. Not really sure why this matters, but there’s a huge untapped copper deposit underground.
The mining method used would create a massive open pit mine, almost as big as the local town. Three lawsuits against the project are ongoing, with one arguing that the destruction of Oak Flat violates the Apache’s religious freedom. The Trump administration’s decision to move forward without waiting for court rulings has faced backlash.
The proposed mine would have significant environmental impacts, including destruction of sacred sites, massive water usage, and toxic waste contamination. The local community is divided on the project, with some supporting it for economic reasons and others opposing it due to environmental concerns. The mining company sees the project as an economic opportunity, but critics worry about long-term consequences.
The fight over Oak Flat has been ongoing for decades, with legislators pushing for a land transfer to allow mining. The land exchange would involve a mesquite forest outside of Mammoth, Arizona, but critics argue it’s not enough compensation for the loss of Oak Flat. Multiple lawsuits are challenging the project on environmental and legal grounds, raising questions about the future of the sacred site.
