The aftermath of the Libby asbestos trial

Jun 1, 2009

To many of the residents of Libby, Montana, a guilty verdict against W.R. Grace was longed for as a recognition of what has been done to them, and as a type of closure to the years of frustration and suffering. When a federal jury found W.R. Grace not guilty in a recent criminal trial—even though the court’s rulings on evidence and statements about the case led many observers to expect a not guilty verdict—it was a blow to those in Libby, another severe disappointment.

Asbestos dust from the W.R. Grace vermiculite mine just outside town got spread throughout the town of Libby. Although the town has less than 3,000 residents, over 200 have died from asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis and over 2,000 have gotten sick.

Asbestos cleanup in the town—which has been designated a Superfund site—has not been completed. And providing adequate healthcare for the many asbestos victims in Libby is a major concern.

Despite the disappointment of the recent verdict, Libby is trying to move forward and start a new chapter for the town. They hoped for justice from the trial, but even without the verdict they believed was right, the people of Libby don’t want pity. They want a future.

Libby wants to escape the stigma of being known as a “death town.” But one asbestos activist in town pointed out that Libby’s role as a cautionary take is important: an example of the harm that can be caused when corporate interests are left unchecked.

For the full story, go to the Flathead Beacon.

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