WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 4, 2020) – Sean McGarvey, President of North America’s Building Trades Unions, issued the following statement honoring the 2020 Labor Day holiday in the United States and Canada:

“This Labor Day weekend, as NABTU honors the contributions of the working class and the labor movement locally, nationally, and across the globe, we salute the selfless bravery and dedication of so many workers across all industries during this pandemic and pay tribute to the millions of building trades workers doing whatever it takes to help their communities during such a trying time. Our membership has rallied around one another in ongoing efforts to keep supply lines open, retrofit factories, sustain power for hospitals, industries, and homes, strengthen labor, health and safety standards, and improve education and work opportunities for the next generation of workers. These same members, while keeping North America running, have helped raise over 3 million dollars to expand critical COVID-19 stem cell therapy research trials. This incredible contribution from the trades for North America and the world will save many lives of people infected by this virus.

“This weekend, we must also reflect on the sacrifices made by workers who came before us, and the thousands of working families who need a voice for the voiceless now more than ever. It will take an increased effort from all of us to lessen the suffering by providing a model of decency, understanding and respect for our fellow citizens. George Meany said it best: ‘The basic goal of labor will not change. It is – as it has always been, and I am sure will always be – to better the standards of life for all who work for wages and to seek decency and justice and dignity for all…’ North America’s strength, prosperity, freedom, and progress relies on a labor market filled with justice and dignity for all. With hope for the future and for more healing across the world, I wish workers across North America a well-earned Labor Day.”

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