John Kennedy describes his introduction to the Black Lung Association in LaFollette, Tenn. The organization’s primary functions were twofold at the time. First, supporting legislation that would secure black lung benefits for coal miners, and along with it, providing legal aide in addressing miners’ claims. Second was union reform, which involved supporting Arnold Miller’s campaign against Tony Boyle’s presidential seat. For more information on John Kennedy’s involvement with the East Tennessee Research Corporation (ETRC) and work related to black lung, follow this link for footage of the full-length interview.
Recorded June 2018.