As we prepare to celebrate the joy of Easter amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Metal Trades Department, its councils and affiliates wish to convey our prayers and continued commitment of our union to all workers of this nation. While many of America’s institutions and businesses are closed, the work of the Metal Trades Department and staff continues as we strive to meet the needs of our councils, their members, families and communities through this heart breaking global healthcare crisis.
As public fear and uncertainty grow around the COVID-19 pandemic, metal trades workers are demonstrating solidarity, hope and political will each day as they endeavor to help our country through this crises.
While the COVID-19 crisis reminds us of our shared imperfections, our labor unions are demonstrating how all workers are truly connected. Workers are beginning to see and understand that ecological order is connected to the human condition, that eradicating the pandemic in one community will never be achieved unless it is done in all communities; and that the success and safety of frontline responders are linked to our willingness to stay home. It is at this moment, when we need to stay at safe distances, that we are finally brought together as one working family standing together to build a better future.
The coming days and months will continue to bring us great challenges, heartache and pain, but will also provide us moments of hope. Each day, we witness the pain of lost loved ones, ill-health, unemployment and economic uncertainty. However, we also see so many great moments of bravery, hope and grace in the noble and selfless labor of working men and women, who at the risk of great personal sacrifice, dedicate themselves to ensuring that our communities, cities, and states are safe.
There is an old saying in the movement, “Pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living.” It is derived from Mother Jones, an Irish immigrant who fought alongside mineworkers and others who often put their lives on the line when they went to work. I believe Mother Jones would heartily approve of organized labor’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic, as workers are coming to the aid of nations sick, poor and broken.
As we celebrate Easter, let’s ensure that our sacrifice and effort in defeating this devastating pandemic is not in vain, and that we use the lessons learned in this time of crises and uncertainty to build a brighter future for our entire country.
On behalf of the officers and staff of the Metal Trades Department, I wish you all a safe, happy, healthy Easter of love and peace.
May God Bless America ….. We are #MetalTradesStrong!
