Community remembers workers killed, injured on the job

Workers, union officials and local leaders gathered in Milwaukee on Sunday to mark Workers Memorial Day in Wisconsin, a day to reflect on those killed or injured on the job.

The event comes after 53 workers will killed on the job in 2018, according to state data. A group of union leaders and workers gathered in Milwaukee’s Ziedler Union Square to remember those killed while at work, and express frustration with a number of policies that affect workers, according to a news release from the Milwaukee Area Labor Council.

“Every American has the right to a safe and healthy workplace,” said Mark Pelzek, president of AFSCME Local 47. “Hardworking men and women working long hours deserve to know that they’re going to make it home at the end of the day. Yet, Wisconsin families are here mourning their loved ones. We’re here to fight for an end to this crisis.”

Union officials also criticized a number of steps the Trump Administration has taken to “roll back and weaken” protections for workers, according to a news release. Such steps include repealing or weakening standards on toxic chemicals and safety hazards and efforts to cut job safety research and training programs.

“Our leaders in government and business should be protecting working people’s lives above all else,” said Greg Tennyson, executive vice president of CWA Local 4603. “Instead, they continue to prioritize profits over people. It’s time for change. Working people deserve good, safe jobs now.”