Carrying forward the legacy of labor champions
This Labor Day, we honor the legacy of the labor movement and those who fought tirelessly for the rights and prosperity of working families. The battles won by past labor champions—on behalf of freedom, dignity, and fairness—are deeply relevant today as we face new challenges in the form of technological displacement, exploitative policies, and the forces of greed that threaten workers' rights.
Real threats are on the rise again, but so too is the need for solidarity among working people. As we reflect on the past, we must apply the lessons learned from labor legends like George Meany, Harry Van Arsdale, and Mike Quill. These icons fought not just for better wages but for the fundamental respect that every worker deserves.
Honoring Labor's Greats
George Meany, a plumber by trade, understood that the fight for workers' rights extended far beyond wages and hours. He envisioned a society where prosperity was shared by all and fought for policies that promoted education, fair compensation, and a war on poverty. Meany’s commitment to affordable housing and his fierce opposition to corruption set a standard for the labor movement, showing what’s possible when we stay true to our values.
Harry Van Arsdale, an electrician with IBEW Local 3, served as the first president of the New York City Central Labor Council. His legacy is one of consensus-building and activism. He believed that civil rights and labor rights were two sides of the same coin, and under his leadership, unions across New York City flourished. His work reminds us that labor’s strength lies in unity.
Mike Quill, the fearless founder of the Transport Workers Union, stood firm in the face of opposition, defending workers’ rights to strike and collectively bargain. His bold leadership during New York City’s first citywide transit strike solidified his status as a national legend, and his militant sense of dignity continues to inspire workers today.
Labor’s Roots and Progress
Proudly, the labor movement’s roots trace back to my own local union—Plumbers Local 1—founded in 1854. In a time of health crises and unsanitary living conditions, our union members helped construct New York’s vital steam, gas, water, and sewer systems. This life-saving infrastructure allowed New York City to thrive, earning its reputation as the city that never sleeps, powered by clean water, reliable heating, and efficient cooling systems.
Today, thanks to initiatives from the Biden-Harris administration, such as the CHIPS and IRA Acts, our members are leading the way in the clean energy transition. We’re expanding into fields like thermal heating, new nuclear energy, and biomass technology—fueled by billions of dollars in investments aimed at creating family-sustaining jobs, lowering emissions, and strengthening domestic energy security.
The Fight is Not Over
Despite these advances, there are those who mock workers' rights. As recently revealed on a podcast, influential figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump openly joke about firing workers for exercising their rights to collective bargaining. This isn’t a laughing matter. Prioritizing profits over people must be met with the same resolve that Mike Quill showed when he stood up to those who sought to strip away workers' dignity.
The truth is that unions have been key to America's success. Unions raise wages by 10 to 15 percent, improve benefits, and enhance the performance of companies through better workplace policies. Studies from the U.S. Treasury confirm these facts, showing that unions don't just benefit their members but raise standards across industries as employers compete for talent.
A Call to Action
The fight for workers’ rights is far from over.
As we face new challenges, we must remain prepared to stand strong, invoking the spirit of labor champions like Meany, Van Arsdale, and Quill. Let their legacy guide us as we push forward, ensuring a better standard of life for all who work for wages.
Together, we will carry forward their legacy, striking back against injustice and ensuring that the promise of the American Dream is kept alive for future generations.
This Labor Day, let us march in solidarity, committed to the ideals that built this nation and determined to protect the dignity and respect that every worker deserves.