Today is Workers Memorial Day, when we remember those who lost their lives just doing their jobs.
This year’s observance of Workers Memorial Day, coming in the middle of a devastating public health crisis, is especially important and poignant. Too many public service workers on the front lines have succumbed to COVID-19 putting their neighbors’ safety above their own.
Everyday heroes should not have to make the ultimate sacrifice to serve their communities. Health care workers, corrections officers and so many others are exposing themselves and their families to serious risk because they don’t have personal protective equipment — gloves, masks, gowns and more — that they need. We continue to call on President Trump to exercise his full authority under the Defense Production Act to accelerate the manufacturing of PPE.
Today, workers all across America deserve more than praise or empty words. They deserve real support. They need lawmakers and policymakers to have their backs. AFSCME is calling on Congress to provide state and local governments with an additional $700 billion in aid. Nothing short of that will allow public service workers to continue safely providing essential services that keep communities across America healthy and strong.
