Fighting for a New Generation of Working Americans

September 16, 2009

Newly-elected AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka shares a light moment with AFSCME President Gerald W. McEntee during a meeting of the AFSCME caucus at the 2009 AFL-CIO Convention. (Photo by Jason Cohn)

Following this afternoon's election of the AFL-CIO's new leadership team at the AFL-CIO 2009 Convention in Pittsburgh, AFSCME President Gerald W. McEntee released the following statement:

“We have a new leadership team that is committed to preserving the fundamental freedoms of America’s workers, including the right to form unions, the right to quality health care, the right to bargain collectively and the right to safe workplaces. They will organize and fight for a new generation of working Americans, building on the progress we have made in recent years.

“Since 1995, when he joined John Sweeney on the ticket committed to transforming the AFL-CIO, Rich Trumka has become a tireless advocate on issues of major importance to AFSCME members. Rich as been a leader on health care reform. He’s led the fight for the Employee Free Choice Act. And he’s worked with us to increase federal aid for the vital public services our members provide. Whenever AFSCME needed him, Rich was first in line to offer help.

“I’ve known Arlene Holt Baker for more than 30 years. She’s a member of the AFSCME family, and served as our area director in California. Her empathy for working people’s struggles, experiences, her tenacity and intellect, make Arlene an invaluable leader in revitalizing the labor movement.

“Liz Shuler is a remarkable new leader, who at the age of 39 will bring youthful dynamism and strong experience into her role as Secretary-Treasurer.

“Rich, Arlene and Liz know that the rank and file members are the heart and soul of our unions. Their voices keep us strong.

“AFSCME looks forward to working with Rich Trumka, Arlene Holt Baker and Liz Shuler to open the doors of opportunity to all working Americans in the years ahead.”