FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
- Mattea Goetz, Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter, mattea.goetz@sierraclub.org
- Sabrina Manygoats, Organizer, info@themathues.com
People Against Polluters Rally to Demand Closure of Pinyon Plain Uranium Mine and Continued Protections for the Region
FLAGSTAFF, AZ – On Saturday, February 28th, community members, Indigenous leaders, environmental advocates, and allies from across northern Arizona gathered in downtown Flagstaff for the People Against Polluters Rally, a public action calling for the closure of the Pinyon Plain Uranium Mine, located within the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni National Monument, and the continued protection of lands and waters threatened by uranium extraction under this administration.
Uranium mining has long poisoned water sources, lands, animals, and communities throughout northern Arizona, with disproportionate impacts on Indigenous peoples. This rally brought together anti-uranium organizers and community members to defend current regional protections and oppose corporate polluters seeking to open additional uranium mining near the Grand Canyon and surrounding communities.
The event featured speakers, prayer, song, and storytelling, along with food, art, and advocacy activities. Participants were invited to sign postcards urging the U.S. Department of the Interior to keep Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument protected and permanently closed to resource extraction. An educational table provided information on uranium mining impacts and land protection, and community members can participate in an artistic activity.
Collaborating Organizations: Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter, Tó Nizhóní Ání, Indigenous Circle of Flagstaff, Wingbeat 88, Center for Biological Diversity, Biddi Roots, Diné C.A.R.E., HaulNo!, NAU Council of Indigenous Ambassadors, and Singing Resistance, plus community organizers from across northern Arizona.
