WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), America’s largest private sector union representing 1.3 million essential workers in grocery stores, meatpacking plants, and other essential industries across North America, commemorated Workers Memorial Day, the international annual day of remembrance honoring workers who have been killed, injured, disabled, or harmed in the workplace.
UFCW International President Marc Perrone released the following statement:
“Over the last several years, workers across the country, both union and non-union, have stared down unprecedented risk on the job. Workers have been endangered by a deadly global pandemic, the ongoing epidemic of gun violence, and the indefensible steps taken by some legislators around the country to roll back workplace protections. Our union, which represents 1.3 million essential workers across the country, has felt the deadly, heartbreaking impact of these dangers. This Workers Memorial Day, our union stands with the families, communities, and coworkers who have lost loved ones.
“This day reminds us that above all, the sacrifices and safety of the millions of workers who continue to risk their lives to keep our nation running should never be taken for granted. If our nation’s leaders truly intend to honor the lives we have lost, they must take action to further protect workers at every level. This means advocating for legislation that prioritizes workplace safety first, whether it is from the ongoing threat of gun violence or pandemic-related risks that workers still face.
“UFCW will never cease fighting for meaningful improvements in workplace safety, both at the bargaining table and in the legislative process, for each and every single worker in this country.”
###
The UFCW is the largest private sector union in the United States. UFCW International represents 1.3 million professionals and their families in healthcare, grocery stores, meatpacking, food processing, retail shops and other industries. Our members serve our communities in all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico. Learn more about the UFCW at ufcw.org.