WASHINGTON, DC (JANUARY 19, 2020) – Today, Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) President James Slevin released the following statement ahead of Inauguration Day.
“The violence that took place earlier this month at the United States Capitol was stoked by racist and hateful rhetoric from a group of individuals who put their own best interests above the democratic values Americans have always honored. To be clear, this form of divisive leadership and violence is totally unacceptable.
“The images of physical violence and destruction and of individuals defiling our country’s greatest institution of democracy are forever imprinted on our memories. Now, we know the activities of this mob are not a reflection of who we are as a nation and we must hold those individuals who inflicted this destruction responsible for their actions. However, we must not allow divisiveness to seep into our family and working relationships. As members of the labor movement and leaders in our communities, we must stand stronger together in solidarity today to live our values and lead by example.
“While so many are being swept away by rhetoric and emotion, let’s rededicate ourselves to tackling the overwhelming economic, public health and racial challenges we face in America today. Let’s recommit to working through our differences together as trade unionists. We’re going to get through these challenges and I’m confident we’ll come out stronger in the end.”
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Chartered in 1945, the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA), AFL-CIO represents around 50,000 active members employed in America’s utility sectors including the electric, gas, water, and related professional and service industries. James Slevin is the UWUA’s National President. For more information visit https://uwua.net.