Workers Memorial Day

The Iowa City Workers Memorial Day was held today. The event is held annually to remember those Iowa workers that died while working. Today 34 workers were remembered that passed away or were murdered this past year.

I have attended this event many times and years ago it was often a dozen or so people standing around in a circle. Today's event packed ICPL Meeting Room A. There were also speakers talking about workplace safety and the importance of organized labor.

One speaker, Sergio Awan, said he had worked a number of low wage jobs and sometimes there would be a safety video. He went on to say he would hear about OSHA, but he had never seen anyone from OSHA. He said workers need to keep their safety in mind and advocate for safer workplaces.

I never attend this event without remembering Jean Martin. Jean helped organize this event many years and I believe attending it was her final public event before she passed away a few years ago. Jean was a tireless advocate for the environment and labor. She was my campaign treasurer. RIP Jean!

Organized labor has always advocated for safe workplaces and their work has brought the United States many advancements in workplace safety. Every injury and every death harms us all. Let's keep working for safe workplaces.

Thanks to the Labor Center and the Iowa City Federation of Labor for hosting this important event.