Dear Neighbor,
Earlier this month, I was proud to introduce my resolution recognizing July 10th as Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day.
Journeyman Lineworkers work hard every day to ensure our lights and power stay on. They brave storms, natural disasters, and other dangerous working conditions to ensure Americans – from California to Washington, D.C. – aren’t without power for long when lines go down.
They deserve our recognition and thanks, and I am proud to ensure they have a day of recognition!
This resolution honors the life and legacy of Henry Miller, the first elected president of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Miller began his career as a water boy on a government telegraph project in Texas at the age of 14. Years later, while working as a lineman, Miller became aware of the dangerous conditions and subpar wages his fellow workers faced. He traveled across the country to organize fellow linemen and played a key role in founding the IBEW in 1891.
Sadly, his life was cut short on July 10, 1896, while working to solve a power outage in Washington, D.C. Today, the IBEW represents one of the largest and most diverse unions in the country.
As a former IBEW member myself, I thank all Journeyman Lineworkers for the work and sacrifices they make every day.
Sincerely,
Linda T. Sánchez Member of Congress
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