Tombstone Cast

Tombtone Cast: Rare Earth Mining On Navajo Land To Continue

Navajo Nation Council Rejects Mining Ban

Despite pushback from community members and environmental activists, the Navajo Nation Council voted 14-4 to allow continued rare earth mining on Navajo land, arguing that the jobs and revenue it provides are essential to the Navajo people.

Mining Leases To Be Reviewed

Council Delegate Kee Allen Begay led the opposition to the ban, noting that mining provided the nation with $3 million in revenue and created hundreds of jobs. While the council voted against the ban, all mining leases will be reviewed by the Office of the Navajo Nation Attorney General to ensure companies are in compliance with environmental regulations.

Mining Is Safe And Economically Beneficial

Defenders of mining argue that it is safe and provides economic benefits to the Navajo people. They point to studies showing that the rare earth mining operation has had no significant environmental impact and that the jobs and revenue it provides are essential to the Navajo people's economic development.

Critics Argue Mining Is Harmful

Opponents of the continued rare earth mining on Navajo land contend that it is harmful to the environment and the health of the Navajo people. Critics point to the potential for radioactive contamination and the destruction of sacred sites.

The Economic Benefits Of Mining

The rare earth mining industry on Navajo land has been praised for the revenue and jobs it provides. According to the Navajo Nation government, mining provides $3 million in revenue and creates hundreds of jobs, arguing that these economic benefits are essential to the Navajo people's economic development.

The Environmental Impact Of Mining

Opponents of mining argue that it has a harmful environmental impact. They point to the potential for radioactive contamination and the destruction of sacred sites. However, the mining companies involved maintain that their operations are safe and that they take steps to minimize environmental impact.

The Health Impact Of Mining

There are concerns about the potential health impacts of mining on Navajo land. Critics argue that uranium mining can lead to radioactive contamination of groundwater and air, which can increase the risk of cancer and other health problems. However, mining companies maintain that their operations are safe and that they take steps to protect workers and the environment.