Indigenous Women Share the Importance of Oak Flat and the Ongoing Efforts to Save It

The year 2026 has just begun and already the efforts to protect Oak Flat continue. On January 7, 2026, Indigenous leaders, community members, and allies gathered at the Sandra Day O’Connor U.S. Courthouse in Phoenix as the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments to stop the transfer of Oak Flat, a sacred place, to Resolution Copper, a foreign mining company with deep ties to the Chinese government. This first major hearing of the year made clear that the legal and spiritual battle to protect this land is far from over.

“As an indigenous woman, it has always been instilled in me and by those before me that the fight will continue from my generation to the next,” said Naelyn Pike of Apache Stronghold.

“I’m supporting the Apache because of the sacredness of the land, and what it represents to their people, but also to all indigenous people,” shared Matilde Martinez, a Navajo Diné supporter.

At the time of this recording, Oak Flat remains protected by an emergency injunction issued in August 2025. That protection could be lifted if the court rules against the current appeals, making this moment especially urgent.