FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 15, 2017
August 15, 2017
Contact:
Tim Kauffman
202-639-6405/202-374-6491
[email protected]
Largest Federal Union Mourns Charlottesville
Categories:
Washington, D.C., Civil Rights, AFGE National President
AFGE asks America to ‘come together to defeat hate’
WASHINGTON – In response to the events in Charlottesville, Virginia this weekend, American Federation of Government Employees National President J. David Cox Sr. issued the following statement:
“Saturday’s rally and counter protest in Charlottesville that resulted in the deaths of Heather D. Heyer, Lieutenant H. Jay Cullen, and Trooper Berke M. M. Bates was nothing short of a national tragedy.
“White supremacy, Nazism, and demonstrations steeped in hatred go against everything that we believe at the American Federation of Government Employees. Unions are about strength in numbers and standing up for all workers, regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or political views. As one of the most diverse unions in the country that represents workers from all walks of life and various backgrounds, we are infuriated by what occurred this weekend.
“We commend the men and women who bravely stood in the face of hate and wouldn’t back down from violence, and applaud the law enforcement officers who put their duty first in trying to keep the peace.
“Our country and our union were founded on the belief that all are created equal. While we at AFGE are participating in Diversity Week this week, it’s important for all citizens to step up and find ways to create peace and unity. Be it attending a church service, speaking to family and friends, attending a vigil, or joining a group that stands up to hate – it all makes a difference.
“And if you can’t find a vigil or group near you, please consider donating to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Anti-Defamation League, or both.
“We hope that out of the sadness in Charlottesville this weekend that all our union brothers and sisters and all Americans can come together to defeat hate by fostering equality and love.”
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