Marat Moore was born in Johnson City, Tennessee as a daughter of Bert and Geraldine Moore. She is an American author, labor organizer, and former coal miner known for her work advocating for the rights of miners, particularly women in mining. Here is an overview of her background and contributions:

Early Life and Background

edit

Marat Moore began her career as one of the few women working in the coal mines in Appalachia. She worked as an underground coal miner for over a decade and experienced firsthand the challenges faced by miners, including safety concerns and gender discrimination.

Labor Activism

edit

Moore became actively involved in labor organizing, focusing on improving working conditions, advocating for miners' rights, and supporting women in the industry. She was a member of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) and participated in significant labor movements during her time in the mines.

Writing and Advocacy

edit

Marat Moore is best known for her book "Women in the Mines: Stories of Life and Work" (1996).[1] The book is a collection of oral histories and personal narratives from women who worked in the coal mines. It was a result her research on women coal miners and her own experience as a VISTA volunteer in Mingo County and (for approximately seven months) as a miner in the United States Steel No. 20 mine in Thacker, West Virginia. It sheds light on the struggles, resilience, and experiences of these women, offering a unique perspective on the mining industry.

Legacy and Impact

edit

Through her writing and advocacy, Moore has highlighted the contributions of women in mining and has been a voice for labor rights. Her work has been instrumental in raising awareness about gender issues within traditionally male-dominated industries.[2] 2024 she received Truth Teller Award for her as a recognition for her work on documentation of history of labor activism.[3]

edit

References

edit
  1. ^ Moore, Marat (1996). Women in the Mines: Stories of Life and Work. Twayne Publishers. ISBN 978-0-8057-7834-2.
  2. ^ "Coalmining Women | Facing South". www.facingsouth.org. Retrieved 2024-08-29.
  3. ^ reports, From staff (2024-02-17). "Jonesborough's Moore receives Truth Teller Award". Johnson City Press. Retrieved 2024-08-29.