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.
Overview
- 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.