Coalition Seeks One Million Signatures to Stop Re-licensure of Monticello Nuclear Reactor

On August 29 Nukewatch initiated the first meeting of the Coalition for a Nuclear-Free Mississippi River. Founding members include North American Water Office, Rainbow Warrior Collective, Resilient Indigenous Sisters Engaging (RISE) Coalition, and Women Against Military Madness (WAMM). The new coalition will work to maintain the 2030 closure date of Xcel Energy’s Monticello Nuclear Generating Station in Monticello, Minn., and educate the public on dangers of the Monticello reactor and safe alternatives.

This coalition unites groups with long histories of battling regional injustices and prioritizes the voices
of local, Indigenous, and other affected communities. North American Water Office has been raging against dirty power companies, uranium mining in the Black Hills, and powerlines across the Midwest since the 1970s. The Rainbow Warrior Collective comprises individuals from the Monticello community concerned about the consequences of Xcel Energy’s reactor operations. Their shared commitment is to protect the planet, water sources, and the intrinsic rights of nature. RISE Coalition, led by Indigenous women inspiring a new path forward with Indigenous values, knowledge, and lifeways, has been vital in the struggles against the Enbridge tar sands pipelines 3 and 5 in Minnesota and Wisconsin. WAMM has steadfastly opposed U.S. militarism and involvement in wars for 40 years, including a vigil to end war that has continued weekly since 1999. These groups working together are the beginning of a safe decommissioning of the Monticello reactor. Join this powerful coalition. Sign the petition at: sign.moveon.org/petitions/petition-for-a-nuclear-free-mississippi-river.

Petition for a Nuclear-Free Mississippi River

To Gov. Tim Walz, Atty. Gen. Keith Ellison, Minneapolis and St. Paul City Council, and Minnesota Department of Commerce:

Demand for 2030 Monticello Nuclear Reactor Closure: We demand the Public Utilities Commission modify Xcel Energy’s 2024-2040 Integrated Resource Plan to keep the 2030 closure date for the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant.