The Protectors of the Menominee River will be hosting a spiritual gathering on Stephenson Island between Marinette and Menominee, Michigan on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Protectors of the Menominee River are organized to express opposition to the Back Forty Mine Project of Aquila Resources, Inc.
Organizer Guy Reiter says this is one of many demonstrations the Menominee Indians have put together to oppose the Back Forty Mine, however Saturday’s gathering isn’t necessarily a protest.
“Sometimes people forget how powerful thoughts are,” Reiter stated. “When you put good thoughts and prayers together, it’s powerful. One of the things we’re trying to do is sit with our water and appreciate it for that moment in time that we’ll be there, be thankful for all that it does for us and all of creation.”
Reiter acknowledges while the mining company promises jobs for local residents, it doesn’t compare to what the Menominee River can offer.
“The mining company will say they’re going to offer people 250 jobs, but this river offers life,” Reiter explained.
Everyone is invited to attend the gathering, as Reiter says having pure water impacts all creation.
“We’re asking all people, all colors, and all creeds to be there,” said Reiter. “This isn’t just a Menominee fight. Clean water is all of our fight. As a people, we need to do everything we can to stand with [the water] and make sure we have clean water for the next seven generations.”
The gathering hopes to bring people together in solidarity against any harm to the river.