Posted on April 7, 2023
This year’s Global Asbestos Awareness Week (#2023GAAW) marked 19 years of efforts from everyone at the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) striving to raise awareness on the issue. More people heard our message than ever before and, more importantly, have recognized the importance of sharing it with others (complete set of resources listed here). Thanks to many, GAAW was an international success.
Although it is called a week, this year we are expanding our efforts through the entire month of April, and are thankful for the support of our community. During this time we accomplished some great feats, including:
- Expanded reach and online engagement
- Securing the 18th National Asbestos Awareness Week Senate Resolution
- Supporting the introduction of ARBAN Act of 2023 (S. 1069 and H.R. 2402)
- Applauded Olin Corporation’s public comment supporting EPA action to end asbestos use
To easily view the seven days of content, please check out our Twitter Threads for:
- Sen. Jeff Merkley
- 2023 GAAW Day 1
- 2023 GAAW Day 2
- 2023 GAAW Day 3
- 2023 GAAW Day 4
- 2023 GAAW Day 5
- 2023 GAAW Day 6
- 2023 GAAW Day 7
- 2023 GAAW International Press Releases
We are so grateful to our “Partners for Prevention”: The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, Environmental Information Association, Occupational Safety and Health Africa (OSHAfrica), and the Mavis Nye Foundation; our International Partners: Association nationale des victimes de l’amiante et autres polluants, who shared our press release in seven different languages.
We would also like to thank our generous Sponsors: Platinum Sponsor, Simmons Hanly Conroy; Gold Sponsor, Gori Law Firm; Silver Sponsor, Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney & Meisenkothen.
Similarly, we applaud the Senate for unanimously voting to pass the 2023 “National Asbestos Awareness Week” Resolution (S.Res.149), reminding Americans about the health dangers of asbestos exposure.
Looking Ahead: Building on GAAW 2023’s Success and Expanding Global Conversations
The global reaction to GAAW ’23 has been remarkable, and we have expanded our conversations worldwide regarding the dangers of asbestos. Our 2023 mantra, “One Word, One Week, One World,” has been realized, and more people than ever are aware of the efforts to end asbestos-caused suffering. We have seen many incredible resources and events shared by those in the global health community.
As we continue to take action together, we will achieve our goals. To each of you who shared our educational resources, your own personal story, or the stories of other Warriors — we thank you! The international participation of people, organizations, and businesses has set an amazing foundation for the year ahead.
We look forward to continuing the Global Asbestos Awareness Week conversation in the coming weeks and again in #2024GAAW.
Until then, remember: HEAR ASBESTOS. THINK PREVENTION.
Linda Reinstein
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