© ARM
August 1 2013
On June 25, 2013 ARM, AMICHOCÓ and Solidaridad collaborated on a day-long workshop with the government of Antioquia and local organizations to engage local miners in a discussion on risk management and best labor practices. The workshop took place in the town of Segovia, a major mining hub of Antioquia, Colombia, and a place that is considered to be the most mercury contaminated spot on the planet. Over 25 representatives of local mining cooperatives and associations participated in the workshop, where they participated in stimulating group activities and discussions, sharing their experiences and perspectives. The miners and community members that were present represented over 400 miners in the region.
All of the miners involved in the workshop were engaged, hopeful and encouraged about the future of their community and the progression of their work. One miner excitedly stated “we didn’t understand the value of formalizing, but now our partners are more secure, which makes our community more secure, and we want to continue improving our work”. The workshop had the most successful turnout of any previous workshops in Segovia and facilitated successful communication and learning.