“People were really happy for us,” said Ka-Voka Jackson, tribal historic preservation officer and director of the Hualapai Department of Cultural Resources with the Hualapai Tribe. “It was something that was echoed across different Nations.”
The good news kept coming to Jackson’s tribe. A couple of months ago, in February 2025, Arizona Lithium withdrew its plan of operations. “We’re pleased that they withdrew their plan. That means that for now, the sacred sites are protected from drilling and that the community members can continue to use Ha’Kamwe’ in line with their spiritual and cultural practices,” said Laura Berglan, senior attorney at the non-profit organization Earthjustice, representing the Hualapai Tribe.
Berglan, however, points out that the case “is not finished yet,” as the court still has to rule on how the BLM handled the permitting process. Additionally, Arizona Lithium retains its mining claim on the area, and the company could submit a revised plan of operations or transfer the claim to another company. Whatever the outcome, Berglan says this case will likely influence how federal agencies handle future mining operations. However, she added that the Tribe expects BLM to consult them very early and comply with US law as stated in federal laws.
Jackson remains cautious and hopeful. To her, the company’s withdrawal of their plan of operations is a temporary win. “We’re keeping our focus on what matters for us, and we’re ready,” she says.
It's no surprise that the picture shy Canadian refused to have her photo taken for the article, but I have been able to locate a large photo of Department of Cultural Resources Simone Ka-Voka Jackson, opposition of the Big Sandy Project (relevance).
AZL Price at posting:
0.6¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held
A personalised tool to help users track selected stocks. Delivering real-time notifications on price updates, announcements, and performance stats on each to help make informed investment decisions.
(20min delay)