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UAW Statement In Observance of Workers Memorial Day

23 April 1998

Statement by UAW President Stephen P. Yokich In Observance of Workers Memorial Day

    DETROIT, April 23 -- The following is a statement by UAW
President Stephen P. Yokich in observance of Workers Memorial Day:

    "This week UAW members and local unions all across this country will
observe Workers Memorial Day.  This is the time we pause to remember workers
who have suffered and died because of workplace hazards.  It is the day we
make our voice heard for safe jobs and strong safety and health protections.
    "Since the beginning of the labor movement and the founding of our union,
the UAW has fought for safe jobs.  We have reduced fatalities, eliminated many
chemical hazards, and prevented many injuries.  Our theme on Workers Memorial
Day is 'Safe Jobs -- Make Our Voice Heard' because our voice together changes
what employers do, government does, and what we ourselves do.
    "Our first focus has always been improving the workplace directly as
workers and as workers together facing our employers.  But, our efforts must
have a public dimension as well.  As UAW members, we try to help all workers.
    "This year marks the Twenty-seventh anniversary of the Occupational Safety
and Health Act.  The labor movement fought very hard to pass this act.  For
the past several years, we have faced an all-out assault by some employers and
their Conservative allies on job safety protections and workers' compensation
laws.  So far we have stopped their efforts to weaken job safety laws.
However, new legislation introduced again this year threatens both health and
safety enforcement by government and workers' basic union rights.
    "We must make our voice heard for safe jobs by calling for an end to the
attacks on workers' safety and health, and stronger enforcement and coverage
for workers under the job safety law.  We also call for stronger whistle-
blower protections for workers who report job hazards and injuries, and an
OSHA ergonomics standard to prevent repetitive strain injuries.  We must fight
for the right of all workers to organize and speak out for safe jobs, respect
and a better future.
    "Speaking with one voice, we will be heard!  We must send a strong message
to Congress, employers and the public that we are fighting back and demanding
protection against all workplace injuries and illnesses.  We must organize,
mobilize and fight for safe jobs!!  We must hold our legislators accountable
and hold their feet to the fire.
    "On this Workers Memorial Day, as we remember our fallen brothers and
sisters who have been victims of workplace fatalities, accidents, and
illnesses, we should also remember to take personal responsibility for
pointing out the hazards on our jobs and making sure that those hazards are
abated!!  We call upon the nation -- workers, unions, employers, and elected
officials -- for 'Safe Jobs -- Make Our Voice Heard!!'"

SOURCE  United Auto Workers