Workers Memorial Day Statement from President Lisa Gourley
Today we honor those individuals that have lost their lives trying to live the American Dream. For far too long working people have died trying to put food on the tables for their families. It has never been acceptable yet much of our society has been complacent. Not one life is ok to lose.
Over the last year, the reality of workers’ risks and struggles has been driven home by this unprecedented pandemic. Many inequities have been laid bare. Though there is hope and light at the end of this tunnel, news headlines are still filled with stories of a pandemic that has held the world in its grasp and has taken a huge toll.
It is time for America to be honest – if “essential workers” means that workers are essential to our communities and a successful economy, then their voice cannot be discounted. Their safety and lives must be recognized as essential too, at the bargaining table and everywhere else.
No one should lose their lives or the lives of a cherished family members or friend because of unchecked work place safety concerns. No one should live in fear that they will infect their families with a disease from work while not having the healthcare to help them. No one should live in fear trying to thrive and live the American Dream. Not one worker should suffer alone. Not one place at the table of a working family should be left empty because of their effort to care for family.
Today, the weight of our loss is real. Today, we honor the dead. And – in the spirit of Mother Jones – we recommit to fight for the living.
The Oregon AFL-CIO held a candlelight vigil honoring the 500,000 American lives lost to COVID-19 on Wednesday, April 28. You can watch the event here:
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