Contact: Chelsey Engel, cengel@usw.org, 412-212-8173
The United Steelworkers (USW) union released the following statement in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place each Sept. 15-Oct. 15:
“Hispanic workers have a long, vital history in the United States that is often overlooked. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we are proud to recognize their many contributions and recommit to the fight for workers’ rights for all.
“From César Chávez and Dolores Huerta to Louisa Moreno and Emma Tenayuca, Hispanic activists and leaders have reshaped the landscape of labor and overcome great challenges to improve working and living conditions for everyone. We are a better nation and stronger movement because of this, and we must do everything in our power to ensure all workers are treated with respect and dignity.
“The USW will continue partnering with organizations and institutions that work to improve employment opportunities for Hispanic communities and as well as pushing for the PRO Act, which would help provide protections for immigrants and other workers who have been historically marginalized.
“Our union is also committed to improving language access in our educational materials to accommodate workers’ diverse needs and varying backgrounds, which have always made our movement stronger and more vibrant.
“Ensuring all workers have the voice at the table they deserve is a noble fight and one we can win if we do it together. As Sergio Ortega wrote, ‘el pueblo unido jamás será vencido’ – the people united will never be defeated.”
The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations.