CONTACT: Fred Redmond (412) 562-2307 fredmond@usw.org
(Pittsburgh) -- The United Steelworkers (USW) released the following statement today from USW International President Leo W. Gerard in response to the horrific shootings that occurred in recent days in Baton Rouge, La., Falcon Heights, Minn., and Dallas:
“We condemn the underlying racism that leads to the murder of innocent people anywhere.
“We share in the collective grief over the senseless killings of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile and far too many others. Our society is still sadly grappling with the systemic racism and unchecked violence that puts black Americans at unnecessary risk as they live their daily lives.
“At the same time, we also mourn the loss of the five brave officers in Dallas. We thank those who put their lives at risk keeping us safe and protecting our right to convene peaceably. Innocent citizens and public servants should never fall victim to hate.
“It is the responsibility of our entire society to work together to break this vicious cycle of violence. These incidents must serve to unite—not further divide—us.”
The USW represents 850,000 workers in North America employed in many industries that include metals, rubber, chemicals, paper, oil refining and the service and public sectors. For more information: http://www.usw.org/.