writing – Emy Minzel

Alchemizing Uncertainty

November 19, 2025 emyminzel

I am learning to embrace the architectural alchemy of uncertainty. What does that mean? It means I build as I go trusting each step is divinely guided. No one knows what the future holds, yet we still plan as if we can control it. They say the greatest journey begins with a single step, and so does the intentional building of a life.

To step off the cliff into the unknown, to rebuild with broken pieces, both inside and out, is its own form of alchemy. One does not become an expert in anything without first being the dutiful apprentice. To create something that endures, one must rely on firsthand experiences that slowly form the artist’s talent and style from within. So, the Universe gives me courses in life lessons that allow me to practice. Each one crafted to level up my skills, relentlessly.

The divine essence that lives within speaks to us all if we listen. I have learned to move in silence, wisely conserving my energy. Time is all we have and how I spend it shows the Universe where I am invested. It took many laborious lessons and decades before I learned to monitor my own energy bank and build firm boundaries. Intentionally directing my time and energy inward for my own use; instead of scattered willy nilly among those who will greedily siphon it until it is empty.

Trusting my instincts as guideposts is not for the faint of heart. Becoming an Architect of Uncertainty requires trial and error, lessons learned through collapse, and the courage to sift through rubble for treasures of wisdom. Instinct tells me I will need those fragments again.

My instinct for alchemy is not born from reading clever quotes found online. My intuition was forged in the dark, painful fire from which my personal phoenix has risen— so exquisite I know I inevitably risk entrapment again if I am not vigilant. Navigating uncertainty of the future is guided by trusting in my intuition and the divine downloads that lead me toward action.

Since I came into this world, I have been considering how I was born and raised Feral. Clutching wild untamable energy so tightly even the Universe let me live a semi-Feral free-range life. Never truly nurtured and protected set free to roam. Wisdom of time shows me purpose of my past. Youthful innocence seeking love and affection I was easily lured into dangerous underworld of lessons nobody wants to learn.

It was through these experiences and a lifetime of enduring violations of boundaries. And a couple attempts of others doing my best to break my spirit so completely that nearly snuffed me out. I now contain a remarkable, vastly contrasting and poetically beautiful duality that comes with heavy lessons.

I find my life has been a bit relatable to the story of Persephone the Greek Goddess of Spring, and innocence, who eventually became the Queen of the Underworld, transformation, duality, and resilience. Relatable because like many people who walk around looking fine on the outside… I do not look like what I have been through.

I am simultaneously soft and stern, sweet and sour. Miraculously my heart remains open because I have learned to find beauty even in pain and keep my light safe in the darkness. I am open because now I can trust myself. Instinctive boundaries built from persistent practice of my lifelong apprenticeship means I am now capable of self-defense in many forms. Yet, I just look like me.

Pain has become a familiar companion of being forged and constructed in fire so often that my metaphorical wings themselves are made of powerful flames. The fire in me recognizes and honor the fire in you instantly. It feels comfortable, even safe, and exciting, because the familiar burn is less terrifying than opening the forbidden door to freedom and self-love. It is not how it looks on the outside. Nothing ever is. This is where my truth resides.

Harnessing the energy of the unknown safely is in the transformation of my own vibrations. Transmuting the circumstances where like attracts like. Commanding that I select the company I keep with the ruthless integrity of my spirits inner knowing. Now, more often than not. I prefer to be alone. I will not slow down my growth for anyone. Catch up or fall off.

Alchemizing uncertainty demands deep internal mining. It means trudging through the heavy weight of defeat, searching for nuggets of golden discernment hidden within. It means tapping into the divinely guided architect of my spirit— finding value in even the smallest diamonds, compressed over years of struggle and determination, mined from the deepest darkest depths of my soul.

Compelled by a mystical force inside endlessly searching for a sacred space that honors my duality and my magic. The magician within me, instinctively cementing treasures back together while knowing that no matter how much gold and grit I gather to rebuild my life; nothing is permanent and the tower will eventually fall again.

The artistic architect within me seems to have a merciless sense of humor and intense drive to continuously re-create myself. Each death and rebirth of my soul has brought to fruition an inner truth. Always reiterating my life path is about how gracefully I go about the journey of gathering gold and making diamonds rather than arriving at the destination on time. Many times, I don’t reach my destination or my goals. The journey never looks the way I thought it would and while learning to trust in that.

The hardest work as the architect of my life is manifesting my prayers and dreams into reality. It comes when I am forced to step into the unknown. Reminding me that I do not need to know how it ends, where it goes, and who is going to be there. I just need to feel my feelings and trust myself. Fully believing that even when I feel as if I am blindfolded in a trust fall into the arms of the Universe… I am certain I will land on my feet.

Though I feel feral, have been abused, abandoned, betrayed by those who were supposed to love me the most. It has been exhausting continually seeking to design a life that feels like joyful contentment, safety, and freedom on my own.

The infinite love I somehow have the strength to carry inside needs a place to be set down. Yearning for a sacred safe space for it to be shared. Searching for the kind of wholeness I long to experience at least once in this lifetime.

So, with a deep desire for respite and rest. I know me and inevitably this longing for love will find me rebuilding another tower of confinement cloaked in the illusion of security and stability. Where eventually it becomes painfully clear that after all the time and effort, I spent rebuilding yet another beautiful life. Eventually the same yearning for freedom will ignite my flaming wings of feral fire that will burn it all down.

Intuitively knowing that once again it will be time to set myself free in order to stay authentically me. The apprentice architect of uncertainty that holds no regrets because I have now learned it was always about the journey.

Figuring out how to balance the light and the dark within. Alchemizing through a sacred and soulful reckoning of my own duality. To unconditionally love myself and heal the feral innocence within that seeks safety in cages.

#BoundaryWatersCanoeArea, #lifelessons, #spiritual, Political

Finding Home

May 27, 2025 emyminzel

This essay of finding home, was written for a live reading at my friend Susan’s art studio in Minneapolis. Where women gathered to read their personal experiences of finding home. Susan invited us to share our stories at the yearly Art Districts Art-a-Whirl community event in studio #501. I am thankful for the experience and the opportunity. Not only for sharing my story, but for the chance to answer such a profoundly personal question I had not truly explored until now. Miigwech, to all the women who hold space, share their experience and love with me on my writing journey.

Finding home.

By Emy Minzel

When Susan invited me to share about finding home… I thought back to my childhood.

I grew up a free-range latchkey kid in Virginia Minnesota. Which was quite fun! It was also how I learned to love adventure!

I am thankful for the skills I learned back then… many of which, I still use today.

I remember the feeling so free! The world out there was waiting for me to explore it and nobody to tell me I couldn’t! So, that’s what I did.

I would ride my bike all over town, making friends in every direction. Often, I’d get to stay with my grandparents up north in Cook. Where I would wander fearlessly into the forest. Gazing at the clouds, following birds, making friends with the trees. Talking to forest animals and fairies.

Even as a little girl I’ve felt most comfortable outside in nature.

I remember floating in Lake Vermillion looking up in the cloudless blue sky. The sun shining in my eyes and reflecting like diamonds on the surface around me.

The sounds of laughter and people playing at the beach echoed in my water filled my ears. While I was being held up by my grandmother’s arms as she patiently taught me how to back float.

I trusted my grandma Emy more than anyone in the world. I was safe. I was home.

Still so young and innocent I was able to tune into the divine source all around me. My body naturally learned it needed this connection to Mother Nature.

This is where my love of water and nature began.

To this day I recognize that the little girl is still inside. When I catch myself gazing out the window on a nice day. You can trust my thoughts are conspiring to see if there is any way to get outside or into the water.

My spirit still yearns for the freedom of that free-range kid.

To feed the need to run outside and soak up the nourishing minerals of the water and vitamins from the sunshine.

My body still loves to float. It feels like being rocked in a soothing rhythm of a warm womb. The water effortlessly cradles me securely and feeding me love. As if I am plugging into the umbilical cord of the Divine Mother’s feminine embrace.

When I am reconnected to the natural world. My mind, body and spirit feel supported, nourished, cherished.

In these moments I can release my worries.

My spirit releases long sighs of solace.

I am safe.

I am home.

As I grew up my life and home changed. We moved away from my grandma and the familiar small town and water of Lake Vermillion.

Now older and more independent, I found Silver Lake, much smaller and not nearly as grand as Vermillion. Often frozen and covered in snow as it goes in Northern Minnesota.

Yet on sunny winter days someone’s dad or the older kids would shovel the thick layer of snow to reveal a gleaming ice rink. Where I would play on the ice for hours with my friends.

When I was tired, I’d sit on a snowbank gobbling up handfuls of ornate snowflakes for hydration. Appreciating the mosaic beauty glimmering in the ice foundation beneath my skates.

I still got to be on the water. Helping my body still feel connected to nature.

Home continued to evolve as the seasons and cycles of time ensured. I moved even further away. Which kept me from the water and my grandma for many years.

The demands of adulting had separated the bond I once felt to nature and my Gram.

For many years I felt out of place in the houses and towns in which I lived. They looked and felt heavy as the concrete landscapes.

Emotionally and spiritually, they weighed about the same. Too busy to rest, too loud to listen, too removed to remember.

Eventually I was unable to relate to my own inner knowing. The part of me that knows better. This disconnection made life feel much harder.

Quick showers and environmental toxins of city life started to soak in. Changing the chemistry of my mind and my energy.

I had forgotten the feeling of being nurtured by nature. As I fed my spirit a steady diet of harder hustle and denial.

I was an adult, doing the adulting things. This is what I was supposed to be doing right?

Plugging my ears to my intuition, the life lessons got louder and way more uncomfortable.

Disassociating from the feeling of being lost. I felt like I was just faking it through life.

Like the chlorinated tap water coming from my faucet stripped of all the minerals and lifeless. The lifestyle I was living was like the tap water I was drinking. Neither deep enough to float in, nor healthy enough to nourish my mind, body or spirit.

Eventually giving up to a numb acceptance that dimmed my spirit. I felt destined to accept the slow dehydration of all that I once loved about myself and my life. Pushing through the persistent aching feeling as if I was drowning on dry land.

Though you wouldn’t know it, just lots of us do. I smiled though the pain and kept keeping on.

By then my grandma had passed away. Missing the safety of her steady love that kept me afloat. My body much older by now. My mind melancholy. My spirit still believing there must be a better way.

It took me far too long to realize I still knew how to swim. It was time to save myself.

I started to meditate and retreat, taking time to find myself. Which allowed me to slow down and listen to the part of me that still knows better. Finally hearing the intuitive whispers still trying to reconnect me with my inner truth.

It was time to find home again.

Life began to reward my efforts for listening. Guiding me with synchronicities that would eventually lead me back to nature and the water…

As the Universe does, it worked, it’s magic. Bringing a new friend into my life!

She reminded me how to play! Which motivated the leveling up of my spiritual journey.

Her friendship felt like a kind, supportive older sister I once knew in another lifetime.

Our connection was slowly rehydrating my verve for life. Like a fresh cool drink of delicious mineral filled water straight from the garden hose on a hot day.

Our playdates got better and longer, each of us doing our best to add more fun and excitement into our lives.

When we planned an outfitted trip to into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area for the first time at age 38.

Nervous and excited we joyfully headed north. The return to the familiar evergreen Boreal Forest woke my soul instantly. With the first sniff of nature’s crisp pine aroma therapy.

My spirit nearly screamed. Yes! YES!!!! More please!

We canoed, portaged, played. The stars were plentiful and my eyes wide in wonder.

We had time to be still and absorb all that is good and holy in this world. I was able to see the clear difference in the health of the water around me and inside of me.

Lifting my spirit and opening my heart. Feeling as if the curtains in an abandoned house were open for the first time in years.

We sat in silence on the boulder shore listening to birds sing to the sunrise.

Quietly drinking lake water tea, we witnessed a moose swim past our campsite. A family of loons floated by going in the other direction.

That morning felt like I was participating in a sacred sunrise service. Being baptized by Mother Earth herself. She gave me the blessing of courage to rearrange my outlook on life and the way I was living it.

I floated in the womb of her wisdom until I felt nature Tenderly reconnecting the umbilical cord of my soul to the nurturing spirit of the Divine Mother once again.

The innocent little girl full of life and love. The part of me I cherish the most. Finally felt safe enough to resurface for a chance to experience a long overdue back float.

Surrounded by the forest full of cathedral trees and ancient stone formations. I felt alive and inspired!

So inspired I began to sing to the water.

Words flowing from my heart vibrating appreciation to the vast heaven on earth that surrounded me.

“Thank you, water, I love you. Thank you for loving me too.

I value all you do. I’m your friend and you my friend too.”

When we returned from the deep forest and crystal clean waters of the Boundary Waters. I told everyone who would listen. “I found where God lives.”

The Divine had coordinated a wonderful adventure. It reconnected me to the powerful force of nature that felt a lot like my grandma’s love.

Setting in motion changes that would ripple through my life over a decade later. Reinvigorating my natural disposition and love of adventure. While Waking up a determination to maintain my connection to nature and water.

I finally found where I belong.

I knew I had found my home again.

Let the adventures begin!

My friend and I began to have many different experiences going into The Boundary Waters year after year.

Each of our journeys had lessons to share. And just like my grandma. None of them ever let me down.

Basswood lake reminded me I could keep myself warm and sheltered even with wet firewood and minimal supplies. Reminding me, my connection to nature provides powerful healing.

The portage to Four Town tested my determination. Showing me how strong I truly am inside and out. Teaching me that sometimes… less is more. While reminding me God has a great sense of humor.

And that the best conversations happen on rainy days over a cup of tea and under a tarp.

North Temperance was a reminder to soak up and enjoy sunny days! Because it’s not every day you get the chance to enjoy a ride on a lazy river of life. So, let yourself truly be present and enjoy them when you can.

The explorations of Big Lake and Brule Lake taught me that paddling through the big waves of life that come unexpectantly would be easier to navigate with a hand to hold.

South Hegman Lake was a lesson in being selective in the company I kept. Having good boundaries and carrying your own weight.

Sawbill Lake taught me sometimes it’s best to rest and float through times of confusion and trust in divine timing.

I allowed myself to be grateful for each perfect synchronicity. Not only in the Boundary Waters but in the flow of life I had finally gotten back into. These adventures in nature bringing me closer to the home within myself.

The vibes of the lakes changed with each adventure. Changing me as well.

My soul was patient as I slowly integrated the wisdom I gained by paddling, portaging and floating in the water. Navigating through the forests Turning into life lessons over the years long after the experience have passed.

All these experiences taught me to listen and apply the wisdom; I’ve earned the hard way.

Teaching me to trust in my abilities when I am swimming beyond my comfort zone.

Utilizing instincts and discernment to recognize when it is necessary to take action to retreat to safety. And truly appreciating the times it’s safe to float.

The next year my friend cancelled last minute and could not go on our trip. By now I was so in love with these excursions that the need to return to nature let me conquer fears that kept me from growing.

So, my first solo pilgrimage into The Boundary Waters commenced.

Proving to myself I could make it through scary storms and long rainy days alone. While also reminding me that the right company is preferable.

As I got older, I tried less roughing it and more back floating. Realizing what I needed now was rest, and relaxation. To allow my overwhelmed nervous system to find respite.

This took me to beautiful Lake Kabetogama. Where I floated and sang to the water between naps.

This somehow led to a magical experience on Mallard Island on Rainy Lake the very next year. Where I learned it was the right time to integrate all these experiences into a welcome transformation.

I kept flowing from one adventure to the next. Following the powerful pull of the water.

This time it was just me and my dog Hank on Poplar Lake off the Gunflint Trail.

A whole week of hiking deep into the forest, kayaking, and back floating at least 3 times a day. Even when the air temperature was colder than the lake. People passing by in a canoe wearing hoodies looking at me like I was a little crazy.

I’m as Minnesotan as a hearty tator tot hotdish and I know it. I waved and smiled. Now comfortable in who I am.

I floated until my fingers wrinkled. Unbothered by any judgement and owning my eccentric vibes.

Poplar Lake doesn’t know this, or maybe she does because I sang to her too.

The warm august water of Poplar Lake held me securely in the womb of her wisdom. While I floated and nurtured my broken heart and loved myself back to life.

These journeys into the forest and pristine waters of Northern Minnesota started to feel more like coming home than going away.

Fighting is futile at this point, my spirit knows it is the water calling my soul back home. I can no longer deny nor delay the journey. I feel this powerful magnetic pull on my spirit as if I am being summoned.

Like my mom calling me in from free-ranging when the streetlights came on. It’s time to come home now.

The persistent pull and intuitive demands calling me home to the water are purposeful. There is a deep sacred duty inside. Compelling me to bring crucial environmental awareness to the world around me.

I believe it’s the spirit of water. She is asking me to help keep her safe as she has done for me. I know in my heart must answer.

Realizing I love the water as much as I love my grandmother. It’s a love so great that I was willing to change my life for the chance I might have an opportunity to protect it.

The Universe was urging me to utilize the life skills, and courage I gained on these journeys. Giving me the opportunity to run for State House of Representatives and then again for State Senate.

JUST to Save the Boundary Waters.

We must understand that the Garden of Eden we read about in a book. Is the planet we are living on right here and right now!

We are the stewards of the bountiful beautiful garden of Earth. The one God blessed us with that provides everything we need.

Did you know? The human body contains the same ratio of water as Planet Earth. A clever design that connects us profoundly to nature. We do not live on the Earth. We are of the Earth. Just like the birds, the bears and the whales.

Just like my body. When I nurture her and love her in healthy, kind ways. She provides me with all I need to thrive.

This is not a coincidence, it is a direct connection and symbolism of what will happen to the pristine water of Minnesota if we allow toxic copper mining near the Boundary Waters.

This type of mining has a 100% failure rate leading to catastrophic sulfuric acid pollution. This is forever pollution that lasts over 500 years. Sulfuric acid is basically battery acid that kills all it touches.

Water has no boundaries.

Minnesota is the water bearer of our Nation. Our beautiful land of 10,000 lakes holds over 20% of the entire worlds fresh water.

We cannot allow our public lands, pristine lakes, rivers and our drinking water to be sacrificed for any reason.

If the President gets his way, the pollution from copper mines will poison water sheds that flow into the Boundary waters up to Canada through the Rainy Lake watershed. Then Lake Superior connected to the chain of great lakes. Into Headwaters of the Mississippi River that runs through the heartland of our nation into the Gulf of Mexico.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a rare and irreplaceable blessing.

Our very own garden of Eden must be treated as the sacred gift it is. The water it holds will be more valuable than gold in less than 25 years.

Environmental facts state that by 2050 over half the US will struggle to find clean drinking water.

Because I love the BWCA and water so much. I am compelled to bring awareness to the fact that Minnesota’s watery way of life is facing a death sentence.

Along with a very expensive and futile superfund cleanup to be covered by the taxpayers… thats you and me.

This isn’t an exaggeration. These are historically proven facts that to this day affect the land and residence of Butte Montana, Peru, Chile, South America and every single copper mining site that exists on the planet right now.

During the years I ignorantly denied my inner knowing I was going along just to get along…

This is when my life was dry and barren, harder in every possible way.

I feel as if the water and my grandma have been divinely guiding to my life’s purpose. To use my voice and art to advocate for the vulnerable and valuable environment that cannot defend itself.

By applying the skills I’ve learned from the water and my grandma. Using gentle strength, devotion and unyielding persistence

This reminds me that.

The work… Is the prayer.

Now the inner knowing is profound and undeniable.

Compelling me to continue asking for help on my path to be of service for something bigger than myself.

I stand here. Using this generous opportunity to tell my story about finding home. And ask you for help too.

This is my earnest and urgent call to action. Please help me protect our water.

To stand together and defend The Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

A gift of sanctuary, our garden of Eden, the place where God lives.

Where I finally… found home.

Blessings,

Emy Minzel

EmyMinzel.com

How to help Save the Boundary Waters!!!

Call your local Minnesota State Senators and Local State Representative in your district.

You can find out who they are by searching on the Minnesota Legislature website at www.leg.mn.gov

Or just follow this link and enter your zip code. Which will bring you straight there.

https://www.gis.lcc.mn.gov/iMaps/districts/

Contact all parties. Republican, Democrats, and independent representatives with respect and kindness. Some of them are unaware of the dangers copper mining guarantees. I personally met with my Republican State Rep who was very responsive to my concerns. He loves Minnesota too! And meeting with him in person was impactful for both of us.

I believe most of the members in MN congress are good people who want to do the right thing. Not everyone can know everything and it’s up to us the voters to tell them how we want to be represented and what is important to us! Write a letter to the editor. Recruit friends and family here in Minnesota to get involved too. There truly is power in the people.

Here is what you say:

I am asking you to vote in favor of protecting The Boundary Waters by voting to support these three bills.

The Prove it First Bill Bad Actor Bill Taxpayer Protection Act

SF1382 – State Senate SF1744 – Senate SF1383 – Senate

HF 954 – State House HF 1197 – House HF955 – House

The Prove it First Bill SF1382 /HF 954. Simply request that an applicant seeking a permit to operate a copper-sulfide mine must prove that such a mine can be operated and closed without causing pollution. Providing proof they have sites that have been in operation for 10 years and after being closed for 10 years without pollution.

Bad Actor Bill SF 1744 / HF 1197. This bill would prevent Minnesota from granting copper/sulfite mining permits to companies that have violated international laws, including corruption, bribery, or environmental destruction, ensuring Minnesota’s clean water remains protected from irresponsible international mining conglomerates.

Taxpayer Protection Act SF1383 / HF955. Taxpayer protection act would require nonferrous (non-iron) mining companies to fully fund any financial assurance package upfront and in cash. This would protect Minnesota taxpayers from being forced to pay for any environmental clean-up resulting from the nonferrous mining operations. Currently the regular operating methods of these companies are to leave a toxic mess and the cleanup bill to the taxpayers by simply declaring bankruptcy. (Source: http://www.FriendsofTheBoundaryWaters.org)

Minnesota is the water bearer of the Nation that guards over 20% of the world’s fresh water. Fresh drinking water is a dwindling precious resource.

The EPA states that by 2050 over have of Americans will struggle to find fresh drinking water.

In less than 25 years the Nation is going to be facing severe water shortages.

This will be a true National Emergency!!!

With already over half of the water in Minnesota too polluted to drink or eat fish from. Protecting and preserving the water we need to survive is imperative. Voting to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is part of our maintaining our States and National Security.

By voting in favor of these bills. You show your Minnesota residence that you stand up for us and do what is right. You prove that you stand against foreign corporations poisoning the purest water source in our nation in a shortsighted and reckless money grab. As your constituent I am asking you to protect our essential water resources and the Minnesota way of life. We can live without copper. We cannot live without water.

#BoundaryWatersCanoeArea, #naturelover, #signs, #teamwork

Prove It First

February 24, 2025 emyminzel

There was a public hearing at the Minnesota Senate Building Monday February 24^th, 2025. It was to bring awareness and support for proposed Legislation drafted to protect Minnesota from the threats from Copper-Nickel Sulfide Mining.

I was born in Virginia, Minnesota raised on the iron range during the boom. My family has many connections and years of experience in iron ore mines. We are a working-class family, full of sportsmen and women, with respect for the jobs that support us. My connection to the arrowhead region is my heritage. I grew up swimming in the delightfully cold Lake Vermilion with my family.

I cherish the memories I continue to enjoy while visiting the pristine waters in the BWCA each year. We are blessed in Minnesota. Sometimes I think we may be so used to these blessings that we take for granted the quintessential Minnesota way of life. Lake life.

If we are not careful, we will lose what makes our beloved state so great. Look around the nation my friends…

Our fresh water is dwindling quickly. Fact: Over half of the water in Minnesota is already too polluted to eat the fish or drink from. Statistics say that by 2050 over half the population in the nation will have difficulty finding clean drinking water!

This is why I am so passionate about protecting the water in Minnesota. The desire to protect the BWCA is what inspired me to run for the State House of Representative in 2018. Then again for Minnesota State Senate in 2022. Though I did not win, I am still a passionate environmental advocate. Which is why I attended this hearing and support these bills. Now I would like to offer a summary of what I learned.

This is a summary; I will provide a link for the full 52 pages of hearing testimonies below. I am sharing so that you can contact your state representatives and ask them to support these very important pieces of legislation. This is not a democrat nor republican issue; this is a Minnesota issue.

Our water is what makes Minnesota special. We all understand that water is life. Even if we don’t see eye to eye on other subjects. Most of us agree that protecting our Minnesota way of life from foreign invasions with nefarious intentions is something that needs to happen.

Here’s what you should know.

The Prove it First Bill SF1382 /HF 954. Simply request that an applicant seeking a permit to operate a copper-sulfide mine must prove that such a mine can be operated and closed without causing pollution. They must prove an example of a copper-sulfide mine that has been operated for 10 years and has been closed for 10 years without causing pollution.

Bad Actor Bill SF 1744 / HF 1197. This bill would ban Minnesota from issuing nonferrous mining permits to ‘bad actors’ who have already violated specific international laws. Including corruption, bribery, or destruction of natural resources. This common-sense legislation would ensure the legacy of Minnesota’s clean water is not placed in the hands of notorious international mining conglomerates with no regard for Minnesota’s environment or its residents.

Taxpayer Protection Act SF1383 / HF955. Taxpayer protection act would require nonferrous (non-iron) mining companies to fully fund any financial assurance package upfront and in cash. This would protect Minnesota taxpayers from being forced to pay for any environmental clean-up resulting from the nonferrous mining operations. Currently the regular operating methods of these companies are to leave a toxic mess and the clean up bill to the taxpayers by simply declaring bankruptcy.

The Friends of the Boundary Waters Executive Director and Lawyer Chris Knopf shared his personal story that led him to this fight to protect the Boundary Waters.

Chris grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Which became world famous when its river was so polluted it caught fire. That is not the kind of legacy we want to be famous for in Minnesota. He then informed us that Minnesota does not currently have laws to protect its clean water against industrial invasion. Secondly Minnesota regulators are unable to properly enforce the flimsy laws already in the books. That is why they need public support and help reach lawmakers in all districts of Minnesota.

Minnesota State Senator Jen McEwan gave a passionate speech in support of keeping the Minnesota we know and love safe from foreign land grabbers only here to take, pollute and leave. She reiterated that the false narrative that this mine is needed to support green energy is just a marketing wordplay to confuse citizens and lawmakers too. In no way is copper sulfide mining a reasonable way to support green energy simply by how it is produced.

Senator McEwan’s speech was inspiring, and heart felt. Leaving us all with the important task of making sure we do the work of contacting our local representatives and telling them to support this bill. She told the large crowd in attendance. It’s important for you to make noise and get this issue the attention it needs to pass bipartisan legislation!

Dr. Steven Emerman has been a professor of geology for over 30 years and worked in issues related to water and mining for over 40 years. His three main points to share were:

Sulfide-ore mining poses a threat to clean water
The sulfide mining industry has a perfect track record of water pollution
The pollution caused by sulfide mining lasts forever.

He ends his testimony stating. The notion that this kind of mining has been done without polluting the surrounding water systems is simply a myth. The toxic tailings will be a permanent catastrophic curse left for every future generation to come to Minnesota.

Fred Campbell is a retired hydrologist who worked with the MN DNR on the Regional Copper Nickel Study. He’s worked in copper nickel mineral exploration data for numerous mining companies including AMAX, Polymet, Twin Metals and Talon. Proving the tailings of these mining operations are indeed toxic everywhere and do not ever dilute or diminish.

These pollutants have been proven to have effects on human health and the environment with catastrophic impact. His research proves the legacy of sulfide mining sites and districts are all now included on the EPA’s National Priorities Superfund List. (Superfund site is taxpayer-funded environmental cleanup caused by industrial corporate pollution.)

Campbell says Minnesota’s existing legal and regulatory framework cannot protect us from the dangers of sulfide mining. Minnesota needs to enact “Prove it First” and other legislation to permanently protect the BWCA and other sensitive areas.

The Commissioner of Natural Resources for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Kelly Applegate spoke on the long history of sulfide mines irreversibly damaging watersheds. Leaving a legacy of contamination long after the mines are closed or abandoned. He reminds us that water has no boundaries and ripple across the environment into our wetlands, communities and drinking water.

Critical drinking water sources will be in danger throughout the watersheds to the Mississippi river, St. Croix River watersheds and Lake Superior. Without proof that pollution free operations are possible, allowing sulfide mining in Minnesota is a high stakes experiment for the entire ecosystem they are not willing to be part of.

Applegate declared “Our efforts are grounded in our community to preserve Minnesota’s natural environment and water resources for generations to come. There is an Anishinaabe teaching that our people have. We care for our Earth, for those yet unborn and the next seven generations to come. If we make good decisions, we can protect the earth and water and know the next seven generations can have a good life.”

Bob Tammen from Soudan, MN worked on the iron range in the mines. He states. “I worked during the boom of the 1970’s and the bust of the late 80’s and the ups and downs afterwards. During a lifetime of mining I’ve gathered a lot of knowledge of the environmental consequences of our mining activities.”

Referring to the Dunka mines that were closed in 1994. The runoff from that Duluth complex materials is still degrading Birch Lake and running into the Boundary Waters. The State of Minnesota and the mining industry have had over 30 years to work on that problem! And they still don’t have it cleaned up.

Minnesota’s three major watersheds come together on the property of the Hibbing taconite plant. Rainfall at that junction will partly go north to Canada and Hudson Bay, east to Lake Superior, and South to the Mississippi River down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Our water is moving. The failure to clean up Dunka should be a warning that the State of Minnesota is not likely to be able to regulate Twin Metals, PolyMet or Talon, which would respectively pollute The Boundary Waters, Lake Superior and the Mississippi River. When we fight to protect Minnesota’s water, we’re also fighting to protect the water flowing to Detroit and Winnipeg and New Orleans. When we defend Minnesota’s water, we’re defending everybody’s water.

With the wisdom of all his years Bob made a point nobody can argue with, he said. “Eventually, someone else is going to get our water. Let’s be good stewards and send them clean water. Pass Prove It First.

Mike Maleska is an Iron ore miner of 42 years now retired and the local Union President. In his statement in support of the Prove It First bill he says.

Consider this; the companies that intend to undertake this venture are in it for profit. Without proof or evidence these companies make claims such as ‘modern technology and science have made pollution a thing of the past!’ believe me, I hear it all the time.

Now what if the citizens come to believe that copper-nickel mining can be done without polluting without proof. Then our state and federal agencies come to believe it too?

If these false claims are taken to be true by the state and federal agencies gullible enough to permit these mines. We end up allowing the world’s most polluting industry, operating a mine in the most pristine part, of the most pristine state in the USA…

As a former miner and elected union rep, I know that shutting down a mine is incredibly difficult, one might say impossible, never mind how dirty it is. What I want to see is some courage from our legislators to make the mining companies do one simple thing. Show proof that they won’t pollute before they’re allowed to put a shovel in the ground.

Eric Ini.

Eric Ini, Chief Equity and Partnership Officer for the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy.

Eric Ini is from Cameroon, a country in Central Africa with diverse economy and like Minnesota, rich in natural resources. He spoke with a powerful message of caution.

“With companies like Glencore doing business with the government of Cameroon, the potential to alleviate poverty is almost impossible. Glencore’s track record of corruption is alarming. I have witnessed firsthand the corrupt practices of Glencore in my home country.

Glencore’s bribes to government officials were not limited to securing oil and gas contracts but also to secure deals to pay reduced taxes and royalties. In Cameroon the company flew millions of dollars on a private jet to bribe government officials, securing lucrative contracts.

This corruption perpetuated poverty, inequity and environmental degradation, causing irreparable harm to our communities. Glencore’s corrupt practices are not limited to Cameroon. Accusations of bribery and corruption are filed in Nigeria, Gabon, other African countries, globally in England, Brazil, UK and America.

NJ Ayuk, a Cameroonian and Chairman of the African Energy Chambers has publicly stated that Glencore is the worst company in the Energy Sector. It’s surprising that countries continue to do business with them.

By barring corrupt and polluting companies from operation in Minnesota. The Bad Actor Bill is designed to prevent what happened in my native county from happening in Minnesota.

I urge you to prioritize the wellbeing of Minnesotans over the profits of this Swiss-based company. Our state’s environment and communities deserve better than to be put at risk by a company with a proven track record of pollution, corruption and disregard for the law.”

Alan Thometz is a Senior Finance Lecturer for the University of Minnesota. He told us he grew up in Butte Montana, home of the largest mining Superfund site in the US. Butte has been at the center of America’s most extensive industrial cleanup efforts for decades. This former copper mine remains one of the most toxic sites in the Nation. Summary of his statement says.

“Superfund designation is proof that financial assurance has failed. There are 1,340 Superfund sites across the country, representing 1,340 instances where companies have avoided their financial obligations, leaving taxpayers to bear the cleanup costs.

Here is an extraordinary fact; Mining companies use bankruptcy as a strategic tool to avoid their environmental cleanup responsibilities. This is not an accident. THIS IS HOW THEY DO BUSINESS.

The five largest global mining companies with Glencore being the biggest, collectively generated $427 BILLION in revenue and $52 BILLION in operating income over the last 12 months…. These companies are far from struggling. Mining companies are incentivized to file for bankruptcy when the ore runs out. The law allows them to return profits to shareholders while leaving environmental liabilities unpaid. Debt obligations should be paid before investors receive returns.

Minnesota’s current financial assurance laws fail to protect its environment and taxpayers. It’s time to fix this broken system. We must require mining companies to fully fund their cleanup responsibilities in bankruptcy-proof escrow accounts. This is financial assurance that works. This is how we protect our environment and our taxpayers. Let’s get it done!”

In contrast to the older men who spoke before her. The last person to testify in support of these important bills was a fresh-faced 18-year-old.

Clair Peterson is a freshman attending the University of Minnesota. She is studying to be an Environmental Engineer. I am quoting most of her testimony verbatim because she moved familiar emotions in many.

Clair said, “Two years ago I was able to visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area for the first time in my 16 years of existence. It might be confusing as to why someone who has just started college, has only been to the Boundary Waters once, and has little experience in political activism, is here to speak to you today. Despite this, I know, without a doubt, that the Boundary Waters is a special place.

It has the ability to connect people to each other and the world around them in a way that not other place can. While I was in the Boundary Waters I got to see loons, and snapping turtles, beavers, minks and garter snakes and eagles. I even got to hug a 1,000-year-old cedar tree!

I hauled 30-pound bags and canoes through the wilderness for four days. My crew and I woke up at 5am every morning so we could get an early start on paddling. We had to work together to support and motivate each other through long portages. It was hard, but through it, I got to connect with my peers. It was a beautiful and wonderful experience that I am deeply privileged to have shared with my friends. I know I will cherish the memories I made in the Boundary Waters for the rest of my life.

My hope for the future is that young people like myself, can continue to discover and fall in love with the Boundary Waters. Where they can witness unspoiled beauty year after year. The decision to pass these bills – Prove It First, the Bad Actor Bill, and the Taxpayer Protection Act will not only affect the next 20 years, it will affect the next 70 years of my life. I, for one, would much rather spend the rest of my life planning trips to the Boundary Waters with my family rather than trying to cleanse it of sulfide sludge.

I urge you to act.

The Boundary Waters is a sanctuary that should be preserved for the future. Just as people need the Boundary Waters, the Boundary Waters needs us.”

Out of the mouths of babes… Clair’s testimony moved me to tears with her earnest passion and love for nature. There were dozens of children in attendance at the hearing. Reminding us it’s more than just the facts that are important. The future generation needs us to do this right now.

Clair understood how to articulate the feeling you get after your very first visit to the BWCA. It only takes one trip to feel there is a sacredness in the pristine waters and forest of the beloved Boundary waters Canoe Area.

After my first visit to the BWCA I came home telling everyone I was certain. That’s where God lives.

What Minnesota has is more than clean water and mineral resources. We host the responsibility to protect the sacredness of its purity. A place so special nowhere else in the country can boast. One that must be protected by the Prove it First bill.

Link to Hearing minutes:

Friends of the Boundary Waters Proposed Legislation – Google Drive

Educational video link: