#United States #Donlin Gold #Bethel, Alaska #Kuskokwim River #Alaska Native Corporations

Alaska Tribes Extend Invitation to John Paulson

In a bold move reflecting the community's desire for genuine dialogue, the Mother Kuskokwim Tribal Coalition has invited hedge fund billionaire John Paulson back to Alaska to engage with the real people affected by the proposed Donlin Gold Mine project. This call for action comes after Nova Gold Resources, a Canadian mining company, hosted Paulson in an orchestrated visit aimed at promoting the controversial mining endeavor.

The Donlin Gold Mine, proposed to be one of the largest open-pit pure gold mines globally, has long been a point of contention among local tribes and the wider community. The coalition, led by Executive Director Sophie Swope, has voiced strong opposition against the mine, emphasizing the detrimental effects it could have on local ecosystems and the way of life for Indigenous peoples.

Swope expressed concerns that Paulson's visit was carefully managed, showing only approved aspects of the project while excluding the voices of the very community members who stand to be impacted. She stated, "His visit with Alaska Native Corporations—the owners of the land and mineral rights—kept him at arm's length from the majority of our people and the leaders of our Tribal Governments whose lives and livelihoods would be affected by the mine."

The coalition's statement highlights critical worries about the environmental and social ramifications of mining activities. Any dam failure from the mine, road construction, or disruptions to water pathways could pose an existential threat to the Kuskokwim River basin. Swope noted, "Any tailings dam failure...will have catastrophic effects that tear through every layer of our lives, permanently impacting salmon and subsistence food we depend on."

The significance of salmon to the culture and survival of the community cannot be overstated. Swope passionately stated, "Salmon is the real gold here. It has always been our food, our wealth, our survival. If digging up gold for jewelry means poisoning our waters and pushing salmon toward collapse, then what is left for the people of southwest Alaska?"

To facilitate a more authentic experience, the Mother Kuskokwim Tribal Coalition has offered to organize a town hall meeting where Paulson can interact directly with local residents of the Yukon-Kuskokwim region. This would provide an invaluable opportunity for the community to express their concerns and hopes surrounding the mine and its potential impacts.

Swope concluded by reaffirming the coalition's resolve: "Then will he see there is no question that this mine does not, and cannot, have a social license here."

The movement against Donlin Gold has garnered support from numerous local tribes, including Chefornak, Chevak, and Chuloonawick-Emmonak, among others. The collective opposition is a testament to the deep-seated concerns that echo throughout the Kuskokwim area. The coalition aims to ensure that the community's voice is heard before any irreversible actions are taken regarding the mine.

As discussions about the future of the Donlin Gold Mine continue, the call for transparency and genuine engagement remains at the forefront. The coalition's invitation is a crucial step towards bridging the gap between investors and the communities they impact, reminding all parties involved of the importance of listening to those who are most affected.