| 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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