In just two short weeks, myself and other attorneys and staff with the Firm will attend the 8th Annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference in California from March 30 to April 1. We’re proud not only to once again be a platinum sponsor of the event, but are also proud to be ADAO’s longest sponsor.
With so little accurate information available about the dangers of asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases, events like the ADAO conference are vital for getting the most up-to-date information about the work being done to spread awareness of this international public health crisis.
This year several sessions will focus on international asbestos problems. ABC Investigative Reporter Matt Peacock will present on India’s toxic asbestos trade. Peacock has spent decades covering the toxic scandals caused by asbestos trade, but even he was shocked by what he uncovered in India.
While developed countries are struggling to rid themselves of asbestos and are grappling with the tragedy of latent asbestos-related diseases, India has ignored the lessons learned by countries like the United States and plunged head-first into manufacturing the deadly fiber. Peacock has covered the hazards faced by Indian workers exposed to asbestos, the majority of which is imported from Canada. Sadly, we know all too well what the consequences of unregulated exposure will mean for India’s workers and families.
Learn More about Matt’s Coverage of India’s Toxic Trade >>
Labor Inspector Fernanda Giannasi will update attendees on her battle against asbestos manufactures in Brazil. Called by some as the “Brockovich of Brazil” Giannasi has spent her 25-year career with the federal Ministry of Labor and Employment trying to shut down the asbestos industry in the South American country. I’m looking forward to learning more about this courageous woman’s story.
Learn More about Fernanda’s Fight Against Brazilian Asbestos Manufactures >>>
As a trial attorney, I have seen the pain caused by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases time and time again. A global, total ban on asbestos is needed.
Closer to home, Dr. Joel Shufro, executive director of the New York Committee for Occupational Safety & Health, a non-profit organization, will also be sharing information about the health status of the rescue workers, employees and residents of New York impacted by the World Trade Center attack. Thousands of tons of toxins, including asbestos, were released into downtown New York on Sept. 11, 2001. Since the attack, NYCOSH has been involved in helping the thousands of people who participated in the rescue, recovery and clean up efforts surrounding the attack who are now becoming sick with asbestosis and other respiratory illnesses because of their exposure on that day.
Linda Reinstein, president of ADAO and her staff, have secured a stellar line up of speakers for this year’s conference. Since the ADAO Conference started eight years ago, it has continually provided in-depth content unavailable elsewhere. With presentations by Matt Peacock, Fernanda Giannasi and Dr. Shufro, plus many more, this year’s ADAO conference is shaping up to be one of the best.
Whether you are a trial lawyer, activist, medical practitioner or have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, this conference has something for everyone.
