Dear Sisters and Brothers:
As we celebrate the Fourth of July this weekend, we also mark a remarkable milestone in our nation’s history: the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. For two and a half centuries, generations of ordinary Americans have carried forward the promise of liberty, equality, dignity, and opportunity. Those freedoms were not handed down easily; they were fought for, defended, expanded, and protected by people from every walk of life who believed that America is strongest when every person has the chance to live, work, worship, love, and participate freely.
What makes America truly great is not found in one background, one belief, one neighborhood, or one point of view. It is found in the strength of our people: women and men, young and old, people of every race, religion, creed, ethnic origin, nationality, ability, and sexual orientation, as well as those whose families have been here for generations and those who have more recently made this country their home. Our nation’s story is still being written by all who contribute their labor, talent, service, courage, and hope to the common good.
The labor movement has always had a vital role in that story. Unions have helped lead the fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, human rights, dignity, justice on the job, and the belief that every worker deserves respect. Through solidarity, working people have expanded freedom not only at the bargaining table, but also in our communities and across our nation. That commitment remains central to who we are, and to the future we continue to build together.
Across our membership, Independence Day will be celebrated in many meaningful ways. Some will gather with family and friends for cookouts, reunions, and community events. Others may travel to beaches, mountains, historic landmarks, or our nation’s capital to reflect on the places and people that shaped America’s journey. However you choose to observe the holiday, we hope it is filled with pride, gratitude, rest, and time with those who matter most.
Thank you for your continued support, solidarity, and commitment to one another. We wish every member and every family a safe, happy, and meaningful Independence Day weekend.
Sincerely and fraternally,
John M. Coveny, Jr.
President/Directing General Chair
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