May 10, 2016
After years of effort, we celebrate victory for the sacred lands and waters of the Lummi Nation at Xwe’chi’eXen, also known as Cherry Point, Washington.
The Army Corps of Engineers has denied the necessary permits for SSA Marine’s proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal, agreeing with the Lummi Nation that building North America’s largest coal export terminal would have adverse impacts upon the Lummi Nation’s treaty fishing rights and way of life.
Almost five years ago, Lummi leadership approached Earth Ministry/WAIPL asking for faith community support in protecting their sacred lands and waters at Xwe’chi’eXen. You responded with outstanding solidarity, raising this clear moral concern with decision-makers – and action, attending dozens of Totem Pole Journey blessings in impacted communities. Truly, you have helped foster an authentic partnership between people of faith and the tribe.
We celebrate this landmark victory but are not done yet. One of the six initially proposed coal export terminal remains, slated for Longview, WA. Continue to speak up for the side of justice by submitting a comment or attending a hearing in Longview, Spokane, or Pasco.
This is the culmination of 5 years of incredible effort by an extraordinary team, led by the strength and leadership of the Lummi Nation in defense of their sacred sites and treaty rights. This really is an historic victory and one in which the faith community played a vital role. Thank you for your support over the many years of this tough battle. Justice is served.
Articles on this historic decision:
Lummi Nation responds to U.S. Army Corps’ decision on Gateway Pacific coal terminal,
Lummi Nation Press Release
Army Corps Denies Coal Export Permits and Upholds Lummi Nation Treaty Rights,
Power Past Coal Press Release
U.S. Denies Permit for Coal Terminal in Washington State, The New York Times
Army Corps rejects permit for coal terminal at Cherry Point, The Bellingham Herald
Tribes prevail, kill proposed coal terminal at Cherry Point, The Seattle Times
Army Corps denies permit for Puget Sound coal export terminal, KUOW
Army Corps of Engineers blocks giant coal export terminal at Cherry Point, The Seattle PI