Obama: We Need Strong Unions for a Strong Economy

[Omaha Steve]

http://blog.aflcio.org/2009/09/15/obama-we-need-strong-unions-for-a-strong-economy/

by Seth Michaels, Sep 15, 2009
Photo credit: Bill Burke/Page One

Photo credit: Bill Burke/Page One


President Obama greets convention delegates, including Alliance for Retired Americans President Barbara Easterling.



President Barack Obama had a strong, inspiring message for delegates to the 2009 AFL-CIO Convention: We’re going to make this country work again.

In a speech punctuated by chants and standing ovations, Obama said he’s committed to the same goals as the union movement: restoring the economy, getting health care for everyone and passing the Employee Free Choice Act:

“These are the reforms I’m proposing. These are the reforms labor has been championing. These are the reforms the American people need. And these are the reforms I intend to sign into law.

“Quality, affordable health insurance. A world-class education. Good jobs that pay well and can’t be outsourced. A strong labor movement. That’s how we’ll lift up hardworking families. That’s how we’ll grow our middle class. That’s how we’ll put opportunity within reach in the United States of America.”

Throughout, the enthusiastic crowd gave him multiple standing ovations—when one woman shouted “I love you,” he responded: “I love you, too, sister.” In turn, Obama showed he understands the needs of working people and the unions that represent them:

“When labor succeeds—that’s when our middle class succeeds. And when our middle class succeeds—that’s when the United States of America succeeds.”

FULL story AND video at link.

[mzmolly]

1. It's been far too long since we've had a President who understands

these basic truths. ;)

[Ruby the Liberal]

2. I was laid off recently

I dread the thought of going back to Corporate. I have been applying for staff positions within the afl-cio umbrella. Prayers/Positive thoughts/vibes much appreciated.

Our working people have been ignored for too many decades. Its time to take back our voice.