We all know that the red bandana has proven to be one of the most notorious symbols of solidarity for over one hundred years. Here at the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum, we decided to begin an award ceremony to honor the Appalachian forces that embody the red bandana and spirit of other figureheads within Mine Wars history.
We are honored to announce the 2022 Red Bandana Award recipients!
Mother Jones Hellraiser Award
Through her activism, organizing, passion, and pure grit, Katey Lauer was the inevitable choice to receive this years Hellraiser award. As well as her work on reversing the erasure of Mine Wars History, Katey is now serving as the co-chair for WV Can’t Wait. Mother Jones would be proud!
Carter G. Woodson Truth Teller Award
Brilliant poet, activist, organizer, founder of Black By God, the West Virginian, and bringer of light into any space she may be, there was no better choice to receive the Truth Teller Award than true-to-her-bones Crystal Good. Crystal, we thank you for your movements made to telling the truth of, and being a catalyst for Black Appalachians.
Hazel Dickens Art Maker Award
This years Hazel Dickens Art Maker award goes to none other than Tom Breiding! Being a West Virginia native himself, Tom has proven himself a staunch supporter of the UMWA - telling these stories of sacrifice and struggles of mine workers and their families within his music. Tom, we deeply appreciate your efforts in undoing the erasure of Mine Wars history.
