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Dear Brothers and Sisters:

On April 28, 2020, the labor movement will observe the International Workers’ Memorial Day to remember workers who have been killed or injured on the job and to energize the fight for strong safety and health protections.

Under the law, it is the employer’s responsibility to provide a safe and healthy workplace.  The union’s role is to make sure the employer takes action to comply with the law (OSH Act of 1970) by negotiating strong safety and health contract language, engaging with federal, state, and local government agencies, and organizing membership actions that promote health and safety in the workplace.

This Workers’ Memorial Day, I urge you to get involved and organize actions, activities, digital campaigns, or other observances in your workplace and community to highlight the toll of on-the-job injuries, deaths, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our membership largely comprised of essential infrastructure and front-line employees.  Make it clear that the labor movement will continue to fight for safety and defend the protections we have already won.  Reach out to labor activists and others in your community to join planned activities.

Resources in support of Workers’ Memorial Day can be found on the main Teamster webpage (www.teamster.org) additionally, COVID-19 related factsheets and resources can be found on the following main webpage (www.teamster.org/covid-19) and the Teamster Safety and Health webpage located at (www.teamstersafety.org).

Even if we are not getting together in person, trade unionists around the country and globe will organize our communities and workplaces to observe Workers Memorial Day. Please let the department know about your events by completing the ‘event form’ on the website, emailing at ibtsafety@teamster.org, or calling (202) 624-6960.

Please join us on Workers’ Memorial Day, April 28, 2020, to honor our fallen Brothers and Sisters and to keep on fighting for the promise of safe jobs for all workers.

Protect Your Rights. Speak Up for Safe Jobs.

Fraternally yours,

Lamont Byrd, Director
Safety and Health Department