On April 27, 2013, security guards opened fire on land defenders at the Escobal mine in Guatemala. Seven were wounded. But last week, the BC court of appeals finally agreed to the suit against Canadian-owned Tahoe Resources, the owner of the Escobal mine. 

Tahoe Resources has ignored local opposition and protests against the mine and been actively disrupting the case. After the shooting, Tahoe moved quickly to close any avenues for opposition. Guards destroyed evidence and company officials worked with the Guatemalan government to harass and imprison local leaders, blocking efforts by the seven wounded to have their day in court.

Tahoe's efforts to silence those wounded failed, and now the company must face the courts. Let's put public pressure on the mining company and ask it to acknowledge responsibility for the shooting, and pay damages now. 

Tahoe Resources: Acknowledge responsibility and pay damages.

The mine is strongly opposed by the affected community. Since 2013, living conditions have deteriorated for the communities near Escobal. In the nearby village of La Cuchilla, residents endure heavy truck traffic and regular tremors from mine blasts. Walls crack and houses collapse from the resulting structural damage.

Facing imminent homelessness, the citizens of La Cuchilla have formed a 'reparations committee,' seeking compensation for the damage to their homes, land, and livelihood. In November 2016, many residents - including young children - launched a peaceful protest outside the gates of the Escobal mine.

Stand in solidarity with those injured protesting and demand Tahoe pay damages and take responsibility.

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