A petition to the Honorable Senator Robert C. Byrd of West Virginia and the Senate of the United States of America.
Around the clock, second by second, miners risk life and limb during their labors.
The foundations and trappings of civilization are constructed from, and sustained with, the materials procured with their sweat and blood.
Without these selfless and dedicated miners human society could never have progressed, nor continue to function.
And the miners of the United States have labored long and hard over the 231 years of our great country's existence.
They have achieved, provided, and sacrificed much in those two centuries.
On December 6, 2007, for the second time since its creation by the West Virginia State Legislature in 2006, Miner's Day was observed in West Virginia.
December 6, was chosen because of the great mining tragedy at Monongah, West Virginia, in 1907.
2007 is the centennial year of that dire event.
The tragic loss of hundreds of men and boys changed the course of mining in the United States forever.
Fairmont Coal Company's Number 6 and Number 8 mines, in Monongah, West Virginia, remain known to this very day as the site of the greatest loss of lives in American mining industry history.
You, Senator Byrd, spoke eloquently of coal miners in the speech you gave before the Senate on December 6, 2007.
It was a tribute they truly deserved.
Therefore, in regards to these statements and in respect to mine workers, across time and throughout the world, we petition you to pass a resolution creating an annual national Miner’s Day for the United States of America.
A day to appreciate, honor, and remember all the miners of the many diverse elements, minerals, and other resources upon which we all constantly rely.
The choice of date for a commemorative national Miner's Day is up to you.
Miners and their families have earned this honor, and continue to earn it every single day. |  |
