Posted February 26, 2024
A Unified Call for Action Against Asbestos, Echoed Across Time
In the heart of New York City, a compelling message captivated the thousands of daily visitors who flocked to Times Square, reminding all who passed by that asbestos is legal and lethal in the United States. Last month, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) unveiled a billboard campaign that vividly highlighted the urgent need to ban asbestos in the United States. This initiative was more than a mere public service announcement; it served as a rallying cry, bringing to light the dire consequences of asbestos exposure and garnering support from across the political spectrum.
This campaign drew attention not only on the streets but also in the media, with significant coverage amplifying its message:
- The New York Times featured an article titled “A Campaign to Finally Ban #Asbestos” by James Barron, shedding light on the ongoing efforts to eliminate asbestos use and the legislative push behind it. Read more.
- The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) shared a poignant story, “Fueled by loss, Linda Reinstein wages war on asbestos,” highlighting the personal battles and advocacy driving the movement. Read more.
- The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reported on how the campaign to ban asbestos has gained momentum, particularly noting the impact of the striking Times Square billboard. Read more.
Key Facts Shared by the Campaign:
- Asbestos exposure has no safe level.
- Annually, asbestos-related diseases account for 40,000 deaths in the U.S.
- Firefighters are particularly at risk, facing both the dangers of their profession and the threat of asbestos-related cancers.
Legislative Progress: The Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act (ARBAN)
The timing of the billboard campaign was strategic, aligning with a landmark legislative achievement — the addition of the first Republican co-sponsor, Rep. Don Bacon, for the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act in the House. This development marked a pivotal moment of bipartisan acknowledgment of the urgent need to address the dangers of asbestos exposure. ARBAN is the most comprehensive asbestos bill put before Congress in over 30 years. History has taught us that legislative action is the only way to completely protect all Americans from asbestos.
The Imperative for a Ban
Despite the known hazards, the continued importation and use of asbestos — propelled by industrial interests prioritizing profit over safety — highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive ban. OxyChem, the last asbestos importer in the United States, utilized the American Chemistry Council to propagate misleading narratives about the feasibility of phasing out asbestos.
A Call to Action: The Power of Collective Action
The enduring presence of asbestos in products and environments underscored the necessity of immediate action. With viable, safer alternatives available, the campaign urged public involvement in advocating for the passage of the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act and moving towards an asbestos-free future. So, what can you do to help? Write to your three members of Congress using this ready-made tool and urge them to pass ARBAN now. Or, share resources and information during Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW), April 1-7, and help educate the public about the dangers of asbestos.
This campaign, witnessed by hundreds of thousands in Times Square and followed virtually around the globe, has set the stage for continued advocacy and legislative efforts to protect future generations from the scourge of asbestos.
Moving Forward, Together, Inspired by Action.
Linda Reinstein