Victory! We defended the right to speak up and won!
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- Published on Tuesday, 26 January 2016 17:15
- Written by editor
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Wilderness Committee wins court battle launched by Taseko Mines
Hi PAOV,
Today we’re celebrating together!
The BC Supreme Court has confirmed that we were within our rights to criticize a proposed mine project located west of Williams Lake, BC.
In 2012, Taseko Mines Ltd. took us to court for defamation for our statements encouraging the public to submit comments on the proposed New Prosperity Mine, located near Fish Lake in Tsilhqot’in Nation territory.
Since then, we have been working hard to defend the freedom of citizens to oppose industrial projects that they believe are damaging to the environment. This victory recognizes our right to do just that.
And this win is bigger than us. It’s not about just one mine project and its environmental impacts. It’s about the public’s right to speak out on matters that affect their communities, and the lands and waters around them.
Despite being faced with a lengthy lawsuit, we never backed down. We stood our ground and waited for a chance to explain ourselves in court.
And it wasn’t an easy fight. In the years since Taseko Mines Ltd. brought this suit against us, we’ve faced increased expenses and devoted hundreds of hours of staff time to refuting this charge.
Despite the risks that a lawsuit like this brings, we never considered apologizing for our words or settling out of court. We knew that wasn’t the right choice for us, for the tens of thousands of Canadians who support our work and, most importantly, for Fish Lake and the wilderness and wildlife that call it home.
Our victory is your victory. And it was made possible by the unwavering support of our friends and allies, and because of generous contributions from people like you.
This funding from individual members and supporters allows us to stand up against environmental destruction and enables us to commit to years-long battles like the one we just won. The faith that our independent donors have in us allows us to stand our ground.
That’s why we are asking you to consider making a gift today. We know there are more fights ahead of us like the one against Taseko Mines, and we’ll need your help to continue protecting wilderness against industrial devastation.
This has been an emotional period for all of us, and we truly share this victory with each of you. Thank you for standing with us through this legal challenge!
For the wild,
Gwen Barlee | National Policy Director
Wilderness Committee
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