CAPITOL LAWN MINER'S MEMORIAL WILL FEATURE DRAG LINE - Monument Was To Have Been For Those Who Died Mining Coal

(12/28/2002)

Photos courtesy of the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition Plaques depict machines, not people A monument in memory of West Virginia coal miners to be erected on the grounds of the state capitol has been changed by recent efforts of the West Virginia Coal Association and other groups. The monument could now have plaques depicting drag lines and mountain top removal. The West Virginia Legislature passed the resolution creating the monument which stated it would be "a lasting memorial to the many who have perished as a result of coal mining in the state." Now the monument, according to several environmental groups, is a PR effort by the coal companies, and no longer pays tribute to those who lost their lives. One plaque shows a drag line and a mountain top removal scene. An inscription says "In recognition of the men and women who have devoted their careers to providing the state, country and the world with low-cost household and industrial energy." Only one plaque on the monument depicts actual miners Vivian Stockman of the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition says the monument reads like an ad, and should never be placed on the grounds of the capitol. The public is invited to attended a meeting with the Capitol Building Commission on Thursday, January 2 at 10 a.m. to discuss the issue. Other information and photos about the monument OVEC

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