Provincial and national organizations sign on to support Stk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc Nation’s opposition to Ajax mine

KAMLOOPS – Support for the Stk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc Nation’s (SSN) opposition to the proposed KGHM Ajax mine is growing.

Today at an allies meeting and solidarity ceremony at Thompson Rivers University, more than 30 organizations announced their backing and signed a 'Declaration of Support' for the SSN's stance against the proposed open pit mine.

The SSN, which represents communities of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and Skeetchestn Indian Band, asserts the proposed mine will encroach on lands and resources at the Pipsell (Jacko Lake) area.

According to a release from the SSN, the organizations represent hundreds of thousands of members from across Canada.

“The SSN has taken a historic step in self-determination through conducting its own independent assessment of the Ajax open pit project in accordance with SSN laws, traditions, customs and governance system," Dr. Ron Ignace, Chief of Skeetchestn says in the release. "The SSN wants to preserve the use of Pípsell area for all British Columbians and Canadians in accordance with Secwepemc law.” 

Today's announcement follows the reboot of the Ajax mine review process.

Early last month, the Stk’emlúpsemc te Secwépemc Nation voiced their official opposition to Ajax mine.

The David Suzuki Foundation, First Nations Women Advocating for Responsible Mining, Kamloops Physicians for a Healthy Environment Society are among the 30 organizations in attendance at today's ceremony.

Honouring Our Sacred Connection to Pipsell- SSN Pipsell Decision Video from Stk’emlúpsemcteSecwepemcNatio on Vimeo.

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