On the recordOctober 18, 2021
growing up in East St. Louis, both my mom and dad worked for the railroads. We weren't wealthy, but we had a comfortable life. I have come to learn how connected that was to our being a union family. I believe that more than any other force in American history, the American labor movement has created middle-class opportunity in America. Unions have won victories that have allowed American workers to buy homes, send their kids to college, and save for retirement. I know firsthand that none of this would be possible if workers did not have the freedom to advocate for fair working conditions for themselves and their families. That is why I am proud to say that Chicago is the hometown of the American Labor Movement, the site of the Haymarket Affair, the Pullman railroad strike, and the Republic Steel Strike. Today, Chicago's union members continue to be students of history and recognize the struggles of those who fought for fairness, justice, and equality at work. Throughout its 125-year history, the Chicago Federation of Labor--CFL-- has consistently fought for fair treatment of workers in Chicago, Cook County, and beyond. Though the people, challenges, and times may have changed, the CFL's mission has remained firm. Throughout its history, the CFL has organized workers across industries regardless of race, ethnicity, or nationality.…





