In the heart of the Dominican Republic, a new mining project has reignited an old conflict between local communities and a powerful corporation. The Canadian company Barrick Gold plans to expand its operations by building a new waste deposit in Las Tres Bocas, a move that would displace 653 families from their homes. This development has sparked outrage, as affected residents claim that the compensation offered for their land is inadequate, and many fear the loss of their homes, their history, and their way of life.
For people like Isidro Coronado and the Manzueta family, the uncertainty surrounding their future is devastating. They have built their lives in El Naranjo, only to now face the threat of forced relocation. While Barrick Gold argues that they have adjusted their evaluations to include more families in their resettlement plan, many remain skeptical. The presence of security forces to ensure the project’s continuation has only fueled further tension.
(Source: El País, “El verdadero coste del oro: un nuevo proyecto minero reaviva un viejo conflicto en República Dominicana,” January 31, 2025 by Nathalia Romero | Kenny Cabrera . Read more)
A Struggle Echoed in Fiction
This story is not unique. It is part of a long history of land disputes, environmental struggles, and the clash between corporate interests and local communities. This same theme of displacement, injustice, and the impact of hidden forces on ordinary lives is at the heart of Shadows Beneath the Shore.
In my novel, the secrets buried within the Dominican Republic’s past come to light, revealing the unseen battles that shape the lives of its people. Like the real-life residents of El Naranjo, my characters wrestle with forces beyond their control, questioning who truly owns the land beneath their feet and what they must sacrifice to protect it.
Why This Matters
This ongoing conflict in the Dominican Republic is more than just a legal dispute; it’s a battle for identity, belonging, and justice. The destruction of communities in the name of progress is a painful reality for many, and it raises crucial questions about corporate responsibility, government accountability, and the rights of local populations.
If Shadows Beneath the Shore resonated with you, this real-life struggle is a stark reminder that fiction often mirrors reality. Stories like these deserve attention, advocacy, and action. As readers, we have the power to amplify these voices and ensure that history doesn’t continue to repeat itself.
Let’s keep the conversation going. What are your thoughts on this conflict? Have you encountered similar stories of displacement and resistance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.