The theology department at Saint Peter’s University recently hosted its annual Keating Lecture, “For God So Loved the World.” The Rev. Dr. Michael Oleksa spoke on the topic of eco-theology, utilizing the controversial Pebble Mine project as an example.
The Pebble Mine, the largest open pit project in the world, threatened to eradicate one of the world’s largest wild salmon fisheries in Bristol Bay, Alaska. According to Collins Dictionary, open pit mining is “a method of mining, usually for metallic ores, in which the waste and ore are completely removed from the sides and bottom of a pit which gradually becomes an enormous canyonlike hole.” While state legislators hoped to capitalize on the gold and copper deposit, the native Alaskan people were not in support of the project, which had the potential to poison the water and kill millions of salmon.
The natives were able to stop the project by appealing to the Orthodox diocese of Alaska and receiving support from a wealthy benefactor. The collaboration of these groups led to a unanimous decision by Alaskans to stop the mining project.
Rev. Oleksa closed the lecture by encouraging students to be supportive of indigenous people who are accustomed to a certain way of life. As part of the Saint Peter’s community, students can develop an appreciation for global learning and cultural understanding, helping them become a voice for others.