I was in Mexico as part of a delegation to investigate accusations against Metallica Mining Co., a Canadian company operating through its subsidiary Minerala San Xavier. A sign meant for Minerala declared, "Foreigners go home — Traitors to the people — Go home now!" In the tiny village of Cerro de San Pedro (The Hill of Saint Peter), the company's presence has thrust residents into conflict. One-third of the town is in favour of the mine, the other two-thirds are opposed.
Our guide, Martin, has lived in San Pedro his whole life. He recalls the days when the streets were bustling with shopkeepers and gold miners who worked the traditional mine shafts. Only 30 families are left today. Martin was close to weeping when he looked up to his beloved Cerro de San Pedro, and asked why a Canadian company wants to tear the mountain away, leaving a one-kilometer hole in its place and ultimately destroying the village.
Due to the protest work of the locals, Minerala San Xavier has had its mining permits temporarily halted. But the governor has stalled on providing the final signature needed to declare the town a UNESCO historic site, safeguarding it from the mine. The plea of our hosts in Cerro de San Pedro was clear and simple:
"Please let Canadians know what a Canadian company is trying to do here. Tell them what NAFTA has done to our community. Perhaps if Canadians speak up, our mountain and our town will not be destroyed."
