FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 3, 2021
Contact: Denise Romano, dromano@twu.org
TWU Joins #EssentialAlways Campaign to Honor, Thank Frontline Transportation Workers this Labor Day
Washington, DC – This Labor Day, the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) proudly joins the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD) and the U.S. Department of Transportation to recognize and thank frontline transportation workers for their service and sacrifice, and remind Americans that transport workers are #EssentialAlways.
During the darkest days of the Covid-19 pandemic, TWU members were instrumental in keeping the American economy open and functioning by serving as the circulatory system for other fellow essential workers. While their efforts during the pandemic undoubtedly saved lives, transportation labor unions want to remind America that their members, and the duties they perform, are essential always.
“Over 95% of TWU members are deemed essential workers throughout the deadliest pandemic our nation has ever seen. They bravely risk their health and safety, as well as the well-being of their loved ones, serving as the circulatory system for other essential workers, getting to and from their jobs,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “They are the definition of true heroes and deserve the utmost respect for their sacrifice and dedication to Keep America Moving. They are essential then, essential now and will be essential always.”
The #EssentialAlways campaign comes at a historic crossroads for this dedicated workforce. As the United States continues to grapple with the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic — which millions of frontline transportation workers have disproportionately shouldered — Congress and the Biden administration are pursuing transformational investments in infrastructure as part of the president’s build back better agenda. Highly skilled transportation workers, including TWU members will be vital in achieving these goals and rebuilding our country.
“Frontline transportation workers power the most advanced economy in the world by operating, maintaining, and building the most complex transportation network on earth,” said TTD President Greg Regan. “Whether they’re helping people get to home, work, or school, moving the goods and raw materials we all rely on, delivering our mail, seeing us through a crisis, or building transportation projects of the future, these dedicated professionals have always been essential to the fabric of America, and they always will be.”
Transportation unions are encouraging the general public, elected leaders, and members of transportation and infrastructure community to join the campaign by following and engaging with the hashtag #EssentialAlways on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and to watch and share this video explaining the important role transportation workers played before and during the pandemic, and the role they will play for years to come.
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The Transport Workers Union of America represents more than 150,000 workers across the airline, railroad, transit, universities, utilities and service sectors