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As we close out 2025, the urgency of ADAO’s mission has never been clearer. For the past 20 years, our evidence-based advocacy has challenged federal inaction, exposed hidden risks, advanced bipartisan policy, and delivered credible science to families, workers, and lawmakers. Not only has ADAO led the charge in asbestos prevention, turning knowledge into action and progress into protection, but we have made sure that no family ever walks alone after a terrifying asbestos-caused diagnosis.
Our work spans five core pillars: 1. Advancing legislative advocacy through efforts like the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act and federal rulemaking; 2. Uplifting patients and families through global support networks and storytelling initiatives; 3. Expanding education and awareness with our annual international conference, Global Asbestos Awareness Week, and multilingual resources; 4. Harnessing technology through tools like The Source: ADAO ChatBot and the Asbestos Action Navigator to combat misinformation; and 5. Mobilizing powerful grassroots action, reflected in the nearly 150,000 voices calling for a full ban. This two-decade milestone reflects the strength of our global community, whose resilience, unity, and shared purpose continue to drive meaningful, prevention-focused change. None of this happens without you. You fuel our fight.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our champions, who show up despite the challenges they face daily, and to our supporters, donors, and volunteers, whose commitment makes this work possible. You stand with us at every turn, and your dedication gives strength to our community. We are grateful to the Congressional leaders who have fought alongside us for a full ban that has no exceptions or loopholes. And we are forever thankful to the diligent and respected law firms who sponsor our work, Platinum: Sponsors: Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP and Simmons Hanly Conroy, LLP, Gold Sponsors: The Gori Law Firm and Motley Rice LLC, and Silver Sponsor Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney & Meisenkothen.
This month has shown why our work remains essential. The FDA withdrew its long-awaited asbestos testing rule for talc-based cosmetics, reversing a science-driven safeguard Congress mandated and leaving millions, especially women and children, without reliable protection from asbestos-contaminated products. We were once again quoted in the NY Times about the drawback, reminding and informing the public that this change puts the onus on Americans to have to try to identify consumer products that might be contaminated, and the average person can’t do that because they can’t know without testing. ADAO remains a sought-after source for information and quotes surrounding asbestos.
At the same time, serious concerns continue to surface about asbestos abatement and potential asbestos exposure during the White House East Wing demolition. ADAO has filed multiple FOIA requests and is pressing for full transparency to ensure no worker, staff member, or community member is or was put at risk.
This is the foundation for our Year-End Giving 2025 campaign. As we enter our Year-End Giving for this year, we are also opening submissions for this year’s Mesothelioma Warrior Candle Lighting, a cherished global tradition of remembrance, solidarity, and hope. Everyone is welcome to participate. Your support sustains the work that protects families, strengthens policy, and moves us closer to a future without asbestos. Together, we will continue this vital mission into 2026 and beyond.
With gratitude,
Linda Reinstein
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