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First Nations News
August 7, 2026
For the past eight years, First Nations has supported tribes and Native-led organizations working to combat extractive industries, such as oil and gas development and mining that threaten the lands and waters that communities rely on. Community efforts protecting sacred sites and opposing extraction are ramping up in response to executive actions that roll back protective measures and demand for raw metals.
A recent photo essay by Time highlights several of First Nations’ Environmental Sovereignty and Justice community partners.
The People of Red Mountain (Atsa Koodakuh wyh Nuwu) strongly oppose any exploration for, or extraction of, lithium from Peehee Mu’huh (a.k.a. Thacker Pass) and the McDermitt Caldera. They are working to protect their homelands by educating communities, holding ceremonies, and participating in legal appeals.
Apache Stronghold is working to protect Chi’chil Biłdagoteel, also known as Oak Flat, from a proposed copper mine. After the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Apache Stronghold’s appeal in May 2025, Apache Stronghold has since filed an updated lawsuit to halt planned destruction of Oak Flat.
Magpie Buffalo Organizing advocates for the protection of He Sapa (the Black Hills) from the proposed Dewey-Burdock Uranium Project. They strategize with other nonprofit organizations and tribal governments to share environmental justice resources and influence policy change.
The Nez Perce Tribe has been restoring fish listed under the Endangered Species Act at the Stibnite Mine site since the 1990s. Their goals are to protect treaty resources by stopping this project and raising community awareness.
Learn more about First Nations’ Environmental Sovereignty and Justice focus area here.
