On June 19, we commemorate the official freeing of the last enslaved Black people in the United States. This is a day of profound meaning to Black workers, as it should be to all working people who cherish and defend the freedom to live our own lives, speak with our own voices and enjoy the fruits of our labor. We must fight more than ever before to ensure true economic freedom for Black workers. We will not allow workers to be perpetually divided by race! America’s union members, fresh off our Workers First Caravan for Racial + Economic Justice, are eager to take part in Juneteenth this year, many for the very first time. We are grateful for the struggle of Black leaders and community members who have poured sweat and shed blood in the pursuit of a greater America. We recommit ourselves today and every day to be a voice for all who live and work in these United States and to say out loud the names of those who were taken from us by racist violence. Black Lives Matter. -- Richard Trumka, AFL-CIO president |