Gordon Smith

Gordon Smith

April 2, 1998 - May 2, 1998

Kentucky Coal Country: The Crisis Continues

Nearly 30 years after the president of the United States promised to deliver Appalachia from poverty its residents remain among the poorest in the nation. This region, whose underground fortunes are still being ruthlessly plundered, now faces a near lifeless economy patched together by low paying service jobs, food stamps and government voucher. In addition to clear cut timbering and mining process called mountaintop removal has resulted in widespread environmental ruin. Photographs in combination with text can serve as a powerful tool in facilitating public awareness and often succeed in bringing about change. Through these photographs I hope to effect even a moderate alteration in the lives of these people who have been so horribly mistreated and abused.