Dear Sisters and Brothers:
Each year on June 19, our nation observes Juneteenth, a day that marks one of the most important moments in American history. On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved people there were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued. From that day forward, Juneteenth became a lasting symbol of freedom, resilience, and the continuing pursuit of justice.
Juneteenth is both a celebration and a reminder. It calls us to honor the courage of those who endured slavery, the generations who fought to claim the promise of liberty, and all who continue working to ensure that freedom is more than a word. True freedom requires equality, dignity, human rights, civil rights, and justice in every part of our society—including on the job.
For union members, this meaning is especially clear. The labor movement has always been strongest when working people stand together across race, background, craft, and station. Our fight for fair wages, safe workplaces, respect, and a voice on the job is inseparable from the broader fight for human dignity and equal justice. Juneteenth reminds us that solidarity is not only a principle we speak about—it is a responsibility we live out by defending the rights of all people.
As we observe this holiday, we encourage every member to do so in a meaningful way. Spend time with family and community. Learn and share the history of Juneteenth. Support events that uplift education, remembrance, and unity. Most importantly, let this day renew our commitment to treating one another with respect and standing together whenever dignity and justice are at stake.
We thank our dedicated IAM members for consistently standing for the rights and dignity of all people everywhere. Your solidarity, service, and commitment make our union stronger and help carry forward the promise of freedom for future generations.
On behalf of District Lodge 142, we wish you and your families a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable Juneteenth holiday.
Sincerely and fraternally,
John M. Coveny, Jr.
President/Directing General Chair
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