Labor & Employment Law

Laborers Returning to AFL-CIO

By James Parks

The Laborers (LIUNA) announced yesterday it is re-affiliating with the AFL-CIO effective Oct. 1, following the unanimous approval of the union?s General Executive Board. 

In a statement, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said:

More than ever, now is the moment for a unified labor movement. And as we rebuild and strengthen the labor movement, we will work together to create good jobs, restore a middle-class economy and elect leaders who stand with working people. Together, brick by brick, we will build an economy that works for everyone.

LIUNA President Terence O?Sullivan said in his statement:

Despite the historic success of the 2008 federal elections, too much is not getting done on Capitol Hill. A united union movement can better focus Congress?and particularly the U.S. Senate?on helping to lead our nation, rather than being locked in inaction.

Read Trumka?s full statement here and O?Sullivan?s statement here.

LIUNA disaffiliated from the AFL-CIO in June 2006. At that time, the union expressed hope for an eventual reunification, continued to organize much of its political efforts through the AFL-CIO and has been engaged in ongoing discussions with the AFL-CIO for some time.

Full post as published by AFL-CIO NOW BLOG on August 16, 2010 (boomark / email).