Federal Court Allows Copper Mine Development on Sacred Apache Land

The decision, facing appeal to the Supreme Court, has sparked controversy over religious freedoms and economic benefits.

A divided federal appeals court panel has upheld a lower court's decision, allowing the transfer of Oak Flat to Resolution Copper for mining development.
Apache Stronghold, representing some San Carlos Apache Tribe members, vows to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, citing Oak Flat's sacred significance.
The mining project could supply up to one-quarter of U.S. copper demand, potentially adding $1 billion a year to Arizona's economy and creating thousands of jobs.
Critics argue the project will obliterate a sacred site, violating the religious freedoms of the Apache people.
The U.S. Forest Service withdrew an environmental impact statement for the project, indicating ongoing consultations with Native American tribes and others.