Cord Byrd: “the great union leader, John L. Lewis, spoke of those who sup at labor's table and who have been sheltered in labor's…”

“the great union leader, John L. Lewis, spoke of those who sup at labor's table and who have been sheltered in labor's house. That image thrives in West Virginia, where children are raised to believe that the fruits of their labor ought to yield a decent wage and comfortable living. Many work long hours, concerned less about titles and honors than providing for their families in the present and securing their retirement in old age. They devote themselves to their labors and take pride in their work and their employer. These workers are committed, hard-working individuals who contribute much and ask for nothing more than simple fairness. And so imagine how they are made to feel--the anguish, frustration, and betrayal they are made to feel--when they learn the pension they worked for, the health benefits they labored for, the security they toiled for, has vanished. That is what is happening in West Virginia to an alarming degree. Special Metals, Horizon Natural Resources, Weirton Steel, Wheeling- Pitt, Kaiser Aluminum--all have filed for bankruptcy, endangering the health and pension benefits of workers and retirees. I scold not those who have sought to protect their employees but those scoundrels who have used bankruptcy to abandon their obligations. It is shattering to those workers and retirees affected. It cripples their faith in the moral values of an honest day's work for an honest day's pay. It's terrifying for retirees who cannot begin new careers.”