The Progressive

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A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release
Contact:

Linda Benesch, lbenesch@socialsecurityworks.org

Richard Trumka Was a Warrior for Our Social Security System

The following are statements from Social Security Works and the Strengthen Social Security Coalition on the passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka:

WASHINGTON

The following are statements from Social Security Works and the Strengthen Social Security Coalition on the passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka:

"Richard Trumka was a steadfast warrior for workers, and for our Social Security system. Under his leadership, the labor movement was instrumental in beating back George W. Bush's scheme to destroy Social Security through privatization. Later, Trumka was a leader in the fight to defeat the Social Security-cutting chained CPI. This world has lost a great person who will be sorely missed. Trumka envisioned a better world where every worker could retire with dignity. We must honor his legacy by making that world a reality." - Alex Lawson, Executive Director of Social Security Works

"Richard Trumka was a leader in the movement to expand, never cut, Social Security's modest benefits. Every current and future Social Security beneficiary lost a champion today. All of us owe him a huge debt of gratitude. We vow to redouble our work in his honor. - Nancy Altman, Chair of the Strengthen Social Security Coalition

Social Security Works' mission is to: Protect and improve the economic security of disadvantaged and at-risk populations; Safeguard the economic security of those dependent, now or in the future, on Social Security; and Maintain Social Security as a vehicle of social justice.