President

George Floyd Movement – a letter from UA 98 President Rufus Hamilton

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Brothers and Sisters of Local 98,

Many recent events across the USA have showcased the pain, disappointment, and anger of Americans following the tragic death of George Floyd.

Equality and justice are the basics sought by all that choose to live the American dream, unfortunately, many of our institutions that exist contain elements of systemic racism. These systemic flaws that reduce the feeling of being treated equally are dehumanizing and show their effects at horrific situations like what happened in Minneapolis.

The campaign against inequality and injustice is one that has had many of debates and protests in various ways for hundreds of years. Peaceful protests are a part of American rights. We have seen many of protest gatherings that displayed togetherness with diversity as they consisted of Blacks, Whites, men, women, young and old. Do not let the violent reactions like rioting or looting distract you from the issues of George Floyd’s death and the need for appropriate legal actions to take place swiftly for those who commit crimes against civil rights. Local 98 understands what it means to stand together in support of something you believe in. We are in support of peaceful protests against inequality, injustice, police brutality and any other scheme used to divide us as Americans.

Our country is suffering at a bad time, the Covid-19 pandemic is still among us and there will be an election that will take place in the upcoming months. So, it’s very important to put elected officials in office that are going to fight to make legislative changes that will help with the ongoing pursuit for equality and ending police brutality.

Local 98 wishes you all stay safe, continue to support local 98 brothers and sisters and do all that you can to produce positivity during this turbulent time.

Fraternally,

Rufus Hamilton

President

 

Rufus Hamilton May 2020 Updates

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Brothers and Sisters,

In this time of great concern and uncertainty, I wish that you all stay safe and healthy. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic is affecting all our lives in many ways. State and federal governments are making the necessary decisions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in hopes of returning our lives to normal as soon as possible. While earlier preventative measures were taking place, a decision to cancel our regular membership meetings until a later date was made.

This pandemic has changed the dynamics of our day to day routines. Many questions and new situations have come about since, we can trust that our officers are working diligently to correctly answer questions and properly address situations. Even though we are following Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order #2020-21, Local 98 will continue to communicate important information to the membership. Being that social distancing is recommended due to COVID-19, you can expect new information and or document exchange to be done mostly electronically. Some members already have seen with the ability to complete a Sub-pay form on the ualocal98.com website. As a reminder, the hall is closed, but Local 98’s agents are also filling out Sub-pay forms for members by phone.

Now is a good time to remember that “The Plumber protects the health of the nation.” Do all that you can to be an example of our slogan by doing what it takes to protect yourself and family first. Washing hands and social distancing seems to be our best options in preventing the spread of COVID-19. The use of hand sanitizers and disinfecting wipes or sprays on frequently touched items like phones, tablets, computers, handles, etc…are also recommended. I look forward to the day in the future when we can resume membership meetings at Local 98’s hall. I will let you all know as soon as that is possible.

Fraternally,

Rufus Hamilton
President