Statement by IFPTE President Paul Shearon on The Loss of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka
“The Leading Voice for America’s Workers”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“The news of Rich Trumka’s passing is a terrible loss to the members of our union and for all workers. He was the leading voice for America’s workers, many of whom, despite their hard work, struggle day in and day out to provide for their families.
Rich was a mine worker who eventually became president of the United Mine Workers of America and later the top leader in the American labor movement. And, while his background was very different from many of IFPTE’s members, most of whom are professionals at companies like Boeing or government agencies like NASA, he understood the struggles and challenges that workers from all walks of life face each day.
Rich certainly was a friend and unapologetic advocate for this union. He walked with our members on their picket lines during a 40-day strike against the Boeing Company. It was Rich Trumka who negotiated the final deal on behalf of our affiliate SPEEA that resulted in huge gains that IFPTE members continue to benefit from two decades later.
Rich was scheduled to speak at our convention next week. He won’t be there. But, make no mistake, Rich Trumka’s legacy lives on next week and for years to come.”
Paul Shearon is the President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers and serves as a vice president on the AFL-CIO’s Executive Council.. Across the United States and Canada, IFPTE represents 90,000 highly-skilled, workers in the federal, public, and private sectors. The union is an affiliate of the AFL-CIO. More information can be found at www.IFPTE.org.
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Download a PDF of IFPTE President Paul Shearon’s Press Statement on the Passing of Richard Trumka.
Richard L. Trumka (1949 - 2021)
Read Richard Trumka’s biography as well as tributes and condolences from around the world on the AFL-CIO’s website.
Information on Richard Trumka’s Obituary and Services
On Saturday, Aug. 14, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. ET, Richard Trumka’s family is giving the public the opportunity to pay their respects to the labor legend who passed away on Aug. 5. He is making one last trip to the House of Labor, a place and an idea that he loved so much. Trumka, who devoted his life to working people, was a relentless champion of workers’ rights, workplace safety, worker-centered trade, democracy and so much more. He was also a devoted father, grandfather, husband, brother, coach, colleague and friend.
All safety protocols will be strictly enforced, including mask requirements and social distancing.
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. ET
WHERE: 815 Black Lives Matter Plaza (16th St. NW), Washington, D.C.
There will be a large public memorial at a later date.