What's Happening?
A new bill, the 'Save Oak Flat from Foreign Mining Act,' was introduced by Rep. Adelita Grijalva, D-Ariz., on December 3, 2025. This legislation seeks to protect the land known as Chí’chil Biłdagoteel,
or Oak Flat, which is sacred to the San Carlos Apache and other tribes in the Southwest. The bill aims to repeal a 2014 National Defense Authorization Act rider that transferred a portion of Arizona’s Tonto National Forest, including Oak Flat, to the mining company Resolution Copper. The company plans to mine a low-grade copper deposit beneath the area, which would result in a massive crater. The bill is part of a decade-long effort to preserve this culturally significant land. BJC Executive Director Amanda Tyler emphasized the importance of protecting sacred lands, equating their significance to that of traditional religious sites.
Why It's Important?
The legislation is significant as it addresses the ongoing conflict between industrial development and the preservation of indigenous sacred sites. The outcome of this bill could set a precedent for how the U.S. government balances economic interests with the protection of cultural and religious heritage. If successful, it could strengthen tribal sovereignty and religious freedom, reinforcing the First Amendment rights of indigenous communities. The bill also highlights the broader environmental implications of mining operations, as it seeks to protect Arizona's natural resources for future generations.
What's Next?
The bill's progress will likely involve debates in Congress, with potential opposition from those supporting the mining project for its economic benefits. Advocacy groups and tribal leaders are expected to continue lobbying for the bill's passage. The outcome could influence future legislation concerning indigenous rights and environmental protection. Additionally, the ongoing legal and political discussions surrounding the Johnson Amendment and religious displays in schools indicate a broader national conversation about the intersection of religion and public policy.
