Dear Members,
America's newest favorite movie, Avatar, tells the story of a people who suffer exploitation by a greedy corporation in pursuit of a black energy rock. Sound familiar? It is happening every day in Appalachia.
Avatar speaks to that inner knowing that we are all interconnected--to each other and to the land, air and water. The good news is that there is no need to travel to the distant planet of Pandora to become a champion for protecting special places.
A recent National Academy of Sciences study brings scientific truth to the issue of mountaintop removal coal mining, presenting irrefutable evidence that this form of mining irreversibly damages the environment and people of Appalachia. The study concludes that the practice should be ended, but unfortuntately the destruction continues.
Our new year's resolution this year is to end mountaintop removal mining and begin moving toward a cleaner energy future for our region and our nation. But we can only succeed if we have the continued support of people who share our values for a healthy, beautiful, and vibrant Appalachia. People like you.
Warm Regards,
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Willa Mays
Executive Director
Scientists Unveil A Mountain of Evidence Against Mountaintop RemovalA far-reaching study published by prominent members of the National Academy of Sciences concludes what our members have long known -- mountaintop removal coal mining's impacts are "pervasive and irreversible." Read the full release.
Blair Mountain De-Listed from National Historic RegisterAlmost ninety years ago, thousands of pro-union coal miners armed with rifles and pistols marched over Blair Mountain to fight for worker's rights. Today, in a script which resembles "Avatar meets Appalachia," another battle wages to save Blair Mountain from the fate of mountaintop removal coal mining. Read the full story.
Join Us For Our Annual Week in Washington!Come to Washington D.C. for the Alliance for Appalachia's 5th annual End Mountaintop Removal Week in Washington! From March 6-10, you will have the opportunity to meet with members of Congress and their staff to discuss mountaintop removal coal mining, AND meet passionate, like-minded activists from across the country. We have scholarships available to help cover travel and lodging for those that need assistance. Visit www.ilovemountains.org/wiw to learn more and register!