Workers' Memorial Day--April 28, 2008

To:  All Local Presidents

Subject:  Workers' Memorial Day -- April 28, 2008

Dear Colleagues:

On April 28, 2008, CWA and the U.S. labor movement will once again celebrate and observe Workers' Memorial Day to remember those who have become ill, injured, or killed on the job, as well as to renew our fight for strong safety and health protections. Participation in Workers' Memorial Day -- 2008 is of particular significance to CWA. During the last year, we lost four of our members to workplace fatalities. In addition, many of our members have suffered work-related injuries, illnesses, and "near misses"; in some cases, suffering severe medical disorders because of these incidents. 

This year, the theme for Workers' Memorial Day is "Good Jobs-Safe Jobs For All." For decades, CWA, other unions, and the AFL-CIO have fought for and led the struggle for improved working conditions, dignity, and respect on the job. By winning legislative and regulatory protections, unions have made workplaces safer for millions of U.S. workers. By negotiating protective contractual provisions, CWA and other unions have improved working conditions and provided dignity and respect for our members. However, particularly as a result of the Bush Administration's assault against workers, many workplace protections have been taken way. Therefore, we must continue to fight even harder for safe and healthful working conditions. 

I urge you to get involved on April 28 and organize actions, activities, and observances in represented workplaces and communities to highlight the toll of work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities -- making it clear CWA and the entire labor movement will continue the fight for safe and healthy workplaces as well as the right of workers to organize for dignity, respect, and a better future. As you plan your Workers' Memorial Day activities, I encourage you to work with other CWA Locals, as well as your District/Sector Vice Presidents and AFL-CIO state and local central labor councils.

Workers' Memorial Day materials are available from the AFL-CIO.  Materials can be ordered on-line or by contacting the AFL-CIO Safety and Health Department at 202-637-5367.

Attached is the Report on Workers' Memorial Day Events -- 2008. 

In Unity,

Larry Cohen
President