Skip to content

Judy Bonds – In memoriam

January 4, 2011

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Julia “Judy” Bonds, a charismatic and tireless leader in the fight against mountaintop removal coal mining in Appalachia.

Judy won the Goldman Prize in 2003 and will be remembered as one of the most important grassroots leaders speaking out against destructive mining practices. She worked closely with the Goldman Prize following her award as a nominator and partner, helping to support other recipients. It was an honor to work with her. Judy passed away on January 3, 2011 at the age of 58 after a battle with cancer.

Photo: Jo Syz Photography

“Responsible citizens must step forward, not just to point the way, but to lead the way to a better world.” – Judy Bonds

Judy Bonds from On Coal River on Vimeo.

Remembering Judy Bonds [Coal River Mountain Watch] Thousands Pay Tribute to Judy Bonds – [Huffington Post] Julia ‘Judy’ Bonds, 58, dies; outspoken foe of mountaintop strip mining – [Washington Post]

Related Posts

How Grassroots Activists Are Fighting for Environmental Justice in the United States


November 11, 2024

Nalleli Cobo, Sharon Lavigne, Hilton Kelley, and Lois Gibbs are just a few grassroots leaders working to combat the effects of environmental injustice. Discover their inspiring stories of perseverance and grit.

Read more

Prize Winners Today: mark! Lopez Tackles Environmental Injustice in Los Angeles


October 8, 2024 – By Ellen Lomonico

Environmental justice leader mark! Lopez speaks with the Goldman Prize about his work as a community leader and activist in East Los Angeles.

Read more

Three Black Environmental Leaders You Should Know


February 20, 2024

We celebrate the contributions of Black leaders to the environmental movement in the United States and around the world. Join us in learning about some of their stories. Sharon Lavigne Environmental justice advocate Sharon Lavigne (United States, 2021) successfully stopped the construction of a $1.25 billion plastics manufacturing plant in St. James Parish, Louisiana. The…

Read more