The inauguration of Barack Obama as President of the United States on January 20, 2009 sparks the change in government that working Americans sorely need. Many Americans will celebrate this historic event: some will go to Washington D.C. and experience first hand the inauguration events; others will watch from the comfort of their homes or workplaces.
“TCU looks forward to a close relationship with the new President, and we are optimistic that the voices of TCU members will be heard, and acted on, for years to come,” said International President Bob Scardelletti.
Our need for union-friendly appointments to the numerous federal agencies that so strongly influence rail workers’ lives continues and President-elect Obama has already passed this test. “We are delighted with his nomination of Congresswoman Hilda Solis as Secretary of Labor. Representative Solis has been a champion of workers’ rights throughout her career, and is a close friend of TCU,” said National Legislative Director Robert Davis. She is a strong supporter of the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). During her confirmation hearing, she pointedly testified that for too long the Department of Labor has worked to protect management interests instead of labor.
All TCU Members should look forward to President-elect Obama’s appointments to the National Mediation Board, National Labor Relations Board, Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration, and the many other agencies that hold real power over the conditions TCU members work under. “We are confident that all of his agency appointments will understand the needs of working families,” said Davis.
TCU joins many others in the labor movement in celebrating and looking forward to the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States.
Click here to read the IAM inauguration statement.
Click here to read the AFL-CIO inauguration announcement.