Posted on January 28, 2025
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) proudly continues its impactful collaboration with acclaimed photojournalist Earl Dotter, unveiling the latest installment in the BADGES, “A Memorial Tribute to Asbestos Workers.” This nine-poster series, a powerful blend of art and advocacy, memorializes the stories of those affected by asbestos and serves as a compelling call to action in the fight against asbestos-related diseases.
A Legacy of Impact Through Art
Earl Dotter’s journey with ADAO began in 2015, following an inspiring conversation with Barry Castleman, which sparked the creation of the first BADGES poster, which honored the legacy of Dr. Irving Selikoff on the 100th anniversary of his birth. From that moment, Dotter’s work became a cornerstone of ADAO’s mission to blend Art, Advocacy, and Action.
Dotter’s posters transcend visual storytelling. Each piece connects the viewer to the human cost of inaction, capturing the resilience of victims, the urgency of policy change, and the importance of education. Over the years, this partnership has become a vibrant tradition, showcasing how creativity and advocacy can inspire meaningful change.
The Evolution of the BADGES Series
The BADGES series reflects pivotal moments and themes in the fight against asbestos:
- 2015: Honoring Dr. Irving Selikoff
This inaugural poster pays tribute to the pioneering physician whose research exposed the dangers of asbestos, laying the groundwork for global awareness. - 2016: Remembering Alan Reinstein
A tribute to ADAO’s co-founder and mesothelioma victim, Alan Reinstein. His story underscored the urgency of banning asbestos. - 2017: Honoring Senator Barbara Boxer
This poster recognizes Senator Boxer’s tireless advocacy for public health and justice. - 2018: Asbestos Fighters
A celebration of the resilience of individuals who confront the asbestos crisis head-on. - 2019: Progress and Challenges
This poster highlights advancements in asbestos prevention while acknowledging ongoing challenges. - 2020 & 2021: Art, Advocacy, and Academia
This installation explores the intersection of art and education in advancing public health advocacy. - 2022: Art, Advocacy, and Action
An emphasis on the power of artistic storytelling to inspire action and change. - 2023: Our Past. Our Present. Our Future.
A closer look at Libby, Montana, and the devastating legacy of WR Grace’s asbestos-contaminated vermiculite mining. - 2024: BADGES OF PAIN || VOICES FOR CHANGE
This latest poster captures the voices and stories of those advocating for asbestos prevention, amplifying the collective call for justice.
Behind the 2024 BADGES OF PAIN || VOICES FOR CHANGE Poster
The 2024 poster features poignant imagery of protests, vigils, and congressional testimonies, emphasizing the human cost of asbestos exposure. Dotter’s work reminds us not only that 40,000 people die each year from asbestos but that each person leaves behind a community of people who deeply miss them. Dotter’s imagery goes beyond the statistics and showcases the real emotions felt by asbestos victims and their loved ones. From demonstrators at the Washington Monument to tributes honoring victims like Alan Reinstein, the visuals convey the depth of the asbestos crisis and the hope for a future free of its dangers.
Pat Morrison of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), who represents first responders who face occupational hazards daily, is prominently featured. Fire fighters and first responders are at a greater risk of asbestos exposure than the average person. We are so grateful for Pat’s continued partnership and for all he and IAFF do. This powerful tribute reinforces ADAO’s commitment to policy change and community resilience.
A Call to Action
The BADGES series is more than a memorial—it is a rallying cry. Each poster serves as a reminder of the lives lost, the urgency of legislative action, and the strength of the community fighting for change. As ADAO marks 20 years of advocacy, the 2024 poster renews the call to join the fight against asbestos exposure.
ADAO and Earl Dotter: A Shared Mission
Earl Dotter’s collaboration with ADAO exemplifies the power of advocacy partnerships. His BADGES series stands as a testament to the impact of art in amplifying voices, educating communities, and driving policy change. As Dotter himself reflects, this series is a tribute to the courage of asbestos victims and the ongoing fight for justice.
ADAO is honored to work with Earl Dotter, whose unwavering dedication continues to inspire and mobilize action. Together, we look to the future with hope, resilience, and a commitment to ending asbestos-caused diseases.
Earl, it is an honor and privilege to work with you on your BADGES, A Memorial Tribute to Asbestos Workers posters.
Linda Reinstein
