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With state regulators approving a key set of permits for Enbridge’s proposed Line 5, the past few days have been difficult for Tribal communities and all those who value our Great Lakes. The amount of outreach and support opposing the industrialization of the Straits of Mackinac has been tremendous to see. People across the region are making their voices heard that they do not want to see this project continue or the permitting process expedited.

Following the State of Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and Department of Natural Resources’ approvals, the decision to continue permitting the project now falls on the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). While we are deeply disheartened by our state partners approving permits that put such a sacred area at risk, we ask our federal partners to please consult with Tribal nations before making further decisions.

Yesterday, the USACE Detroit District transitioned to new leadership. Lt. Col. Donald K. Lew is now the decision-maker for the USACE in the Upper Great Lakes. While we know that the USACE permit that Enbridge needs to proceed will be a department-wide decision, Lt. Col. Lew is now at the helm and will have a voice in that process. We understand that he may receive briefings on the issues, but those briefings do not replace direct consultation with Tribal nations.

We believe Lt. Col. Lew and the USACE will recognize the value of Tribal partnerships and Tribal treaty rights. The Straits of Mackinac have been a sacred area to Anishinaabe people since time immemorial. Industrializing this area will unearth and desecrate the bodies of our grandfathers, grandmothers, Ogemmag (leaders), and honored Ogichidaag (warriors), who have rested in peace since before colonization. It would be comparable to industrializing Arlington National Cemetery and placing an oil pipeline through it.

We urge Lt. Col. Lew to take the necessary time to meet with Tribes and fully grasp the issues affecting us rather than fast-track a decision. We understand that there are political ramifications at play, but constructing a tunnel underneath the Straits of Mackinac is not a political issue. It is an issue of doing what is right for the Great Lakes. It is about human rights. It is about Tribal treaty rights. Allowing a Canadian corporation to continue operating an oil pipeline that benefits Canadian citizens does not solve an American National Energy Emergency that experts agree may not exist.

We want Lt. Col. Lew and the USACE to understand the incredible level of concern surrounding this project and our fears of the irreparable damage that could permanently alter the Straits of Mackinac.

We welcome the new lieutenant colonel to the area. We trust that he proves to be a partner to the environment, Tribal nations, and all those that value the Great Lakes. The decision to issue permits to Enbridge should involve an open conversation with all those affected by this project. We encourage Lt. Col. Lew to step into his new role with an open mind and keep an open door to discussions with Tribal nations before making a decision on Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline.