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A recent federal court ruling has temporarily halted the U.S. government's plan to transfer Oak Flat, a sacred site for the Western Apache people, to Resolution Copper, a Chinese-owned mining company. The site is under threat of being transformed into a large mining crater, which would disrupt Apache religious practices.
Apache Stronghold, comprising Western Apaches and allies, filed an emergency request to stop the transfer while awaiting a Supreme Court decision. Judge Steven P. Logan granted the request on May 9, stating that "the balance of equities 'tips sharply' in Plaintiff’s favor" and emphasized the need for Supreme Court scrutiny.
Brooks Berndt from the United Church of Christ highlighted the emotional impact of potentially losing such sacred land. He compared it to biblical concepts of Holy Land inheritance. Rev. Sue Joiner expressed relief over the temporary protection but stressed continued vigilance against corporate interests threatening Oak Flat.
The history of Oak Flat's protection spans 70 years until a 2014 defense bill provision authorized its transfer to Resolution Copper. The company plans significant mining operations similar to those that destroyed Indigenous sites in Australia.
Wendsler Nosie Sr., representing Apache Stronghold, expressed gratitude for halting what he described as a "land grab," allowing time for further legal action.
The lawsuit opposing the mine was initiated by Apache Stronghold in January 2021 and has received support from various tribal nations and organizations. National polling shows substantial public support for protecting Oak Flat.
John Maddaus from First Congregational UCC called for sustainable relationships with nature and respect for Indigenous beliefs, hoping that protecting Oak Flat would symbolize progress toward these goals.
