National Miners Day is an annual observance dedicated to honoring the contributions and sacrifices of miners who work tirelessly to extract essential resources that power our daily lives.
Quick Facts
- When is it: December 6th annually
- Tagged as: Federal observance
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalMinersDay
- When was it founded: 2009
- Who founded it: United States Congress
History
The date commemorates America’s worst mining disaster – the Monongah Mining Disaster of 1907 in West Virginia, where 362 miners lost their lives in a catastrophic explosion. This tragedy led to improved mining safety regulations and eventually the establishment of this national day of recognition.
Timeline
- 1907: Monongah Mining Disaster occurs
- 2009: Congress designates December 6 as National Miners Day
- 2021: Launch of “Stand Down to Save Lives” national safety campaign
- 2023: Enhanced focus on miner safety and health initiatives
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dec 6 | Friday |
| 2025 | Dec 6 | Saturday |
| 2026 | Dec 6 | Sunday |
| 2027 | Dec 6 | Monday |
| 2028 | Dec 6 | Wednesday |
How It’s Observed
Mining communities across America hold memorial services, educational events, and recognition ceremonies. The Mine Safety and Health Administration develops special programs and awareness campaigns to promote safer mining practices.
Fun Facts About Mining
- Every American uses approximately 40,000 pounds of newly mined materials annually
- A single computer contains 66 different mined minerals
- The average American home contains 439 pounds of copper
- Mining sector represents about 574,200 jobs in America
Quiz
- When did the Monongah Mining Disaster occur?
- How many minerals are used in a computer?
- What percentage of U.S. employment is in mining?
-(Answers: 1907; 66; 0.4%)
FAQs
Q: Why December 6th?
A: It marks the anniversary of the Monongah Mining Disaster.
Q: What materials do miners extract?
A: Coal, gold, copper, silver, granite, limestone, salt, and gravel, among others.
Importance of National Miners Day
This day recognizes the vital role miners play in our economy and daily lives, from providing materials for electronics to infrastructure development. It also serves as a reminder of the hazardous conditions miners face and the ongoing need for workplace safety improvements.
Related Observances
- Labor Day
- Workers’ Memorial Day
- Occupational Safety and Health Week
- Black Lung Awareness Day