On December 30, 2020, our environmental movement lost one of its champion’s Ginny Wolff. I met Ginny in my work on the coal exports fight. As an organizer for the Sierra Club, I didn't do anything in the Skagit Valley without Ginny, along with Carolyn Gastellum and Mary Ruth Holder right beside me. She was a terrific spokesperson as a doctor, and as a radio host she was a knowledgeable information source for the public throughout the campaign. From leading team meetings, to testifying at hearings, to writing letters, you name it and Ginny was ready to dive into the task. I would like to share a tribute from fellow activist Mary Ruth Holder. Ginny will be greatly missed by us here at the Sierra Club.
- Robin Everett, Senior Organizing Manager
With the passing of Ginny Wolff, Skagit has lost a much-loved advocate for nature, social justice, democracy and our communities.
We were truly blessed that Ginny turned her brilliant mind to protecting our local and state natural environment, always plumbing the depths of issues presented to her. Based upon her extensive research and understanding, Ginny carefully selected and interviewed speakers on these issues for KVSR’s radio program, Speak up, Speak Out, which she hosted. Ginny also made informational presentations to interested citizens wishing to submit public comments on environmental issues, and was one of the four women who sent out action alerts for Protect Skagit concerning the proposals for large coal export terminals, oil by rail shipments, climate change, plight of the Orca Whales and more.
While she was still able to do so, for several years Ginny attended meetings with the state agency tasked with updating and improving refinery worker and community safety regulations. In April 2019 her radio show covered the tragic explosions and fires that have killed refinery workers and led to the efforts to bring all of Washington’s refinery safety regulations into the 21st Century.
Ginny was a sought-after team member: doing hard and thorough work herself, she took care to make others look good. Ginny worked alongside various environmental advocacy groups over the years and provided her steady support, friendship and careful guidance for the young representatives of these groups. Many times her edits, suggestions and support also helped me to craft presentations and make public comments. Indeed, on many occasions, she gave me the courage to stand up and speak out. One time she literally held my hand at a large public comment session and gave me her coat to stop my "fear chills" before my turn to speak at the podium.
Ginny not only worked on important issues, but campaigned door to door (even during her illness) for some of our worthy state and local candidates. She also regularly provided support to friends and neighbors with their own health issues, including some she met while out doorbelling! Ginny was an extraordinary human being in every way. May the bright light and courage of Ginny's life continue to be an inspiration to us all.
- Written by Mary Ruth Holder