With the rhetoric and propaganda spewing from the mouths of those who consider themselves proud members of the asbestos industry, I felt that it is a great time for us in opposition to take a look back on what we have done over this past calendar year. It was one year ago this December 8 that the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization and the entire world joined the Asian Solidarity Delegation mission to stand up and fight the continued mining, use, and exportation of asbestos from Canada to the world.

By harnessing social media outlets and networks, ADAO helped to unite 40 different Asbestos Victims’ Organizations from 17 countries dedicated to helping victims with the “Say No to the Jeffrey Asbestos Mine” unity letter. In doing so, a joint letter signed by all was sent to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Quebec Premier Jean Charest, and Bernard Coulombe, the President of Jeffrey Mines Inc. The pain of asbestos victims is deep and real, as we saw more than 1400 messages posted on the “Voices on the Wall” Facebook page from around the world in protest of Canada’s continued practices with asbestos. I feel that it is important now more than ever to open the “Voices on the Wall” page to the public, in order that all may post their thoughts and prayers. One such post, originally found on the GBAN website by Jagdish Patel, is especially poignant. Victims, family members, and concerned individuals looking to make a difference had their voices heard, asking for Canada to stop mining and exporting asbestos to Asia.

Now, one year later, we are still fighting the good fight. Although Canada continues to mine and export death across the world, there is hope yet. Pressure continues to be mounted from dedicated victim’s activist groups towards the Canadian government, urging them to once and for all end their heinous practices. It is through such strong, united, and dedicated networks that this pressure is possible. 2011 has been a tough year, as many we have loved were lost to us, but their memories live on in our continued fight against asbestos use. In this point of reflection, I am reminded that our solidarity is our greatest asset.

How do you feel one year later about the Canadian government mining and exporting chrysotile asbestos to Asia?  Be seen and heard, post your message, photo, or video on the “Voices on the Wall” Facebook page.

In unity,

Linda

Linda Reinstein’s Social Networks

ADAO Social Networks

ADAO press release from December 8, 2010

Global Social Media Advocacy Campaign: Help Stop the Jeffrey Asbestos Mine