Uranium Mining in the Black Hills

Today, Josh and Jaydon will discuss the environmental and social impact of uranium mining in the Black Hills, South Dakota. Situated just south of the Black Hills, Pine Ridge Reservation provides a home to almost 20,000 people, most of whom are of native descent and have received years of neglect from the United States colonial government. The almost 200 uranium mines in the Black Hills leak uranium into the air and drinking water of people on Pine Reservation, making them more susceptible to diagnoses such as cancer. Coupled with the poor support from the United States, which has caused a housing crisis, the quality of life of Pine ridge reservation seems to be decreasing as the United States sacrifices it to mine uranium. Earlier this year, Azarga Metals Corp., a Canadian mining company, requested to reopen a plot of land right next to Pine Ridge Reservation–the Dewey-Burdock site. Even though many native advocacy groups have fought against this new mine, the battle continues. Listen more to hear the history of this conflict, and learn about what it currently stands.