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

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