Press Release

Latinos at the Forefront of Advancing Workers’ Rights

Statement from AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka on Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the countless contributions of Latinos to our nation. It is also a time to evaluate the challenges that they face. Today, as America’s Latino community grows stronger, so do attacks from extremist politicians who want to divide us and are obsessed with using hardworking Latinos as scapegoats.

But they could not be more mistaken. Latino working families are stronger as ever. The Latino community has been at the forefront in raising wages and winning workers’ rights through their collective voice. It is this same strength and determination that throughout history has built America and that will continue to move our country forward.

This year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is unique. Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, will be visiting the United States. Let’s welcome the Holy Father by listening and acting upon his message of inclusion, solidarity and unity.

Contact: Gonzalo Salvador (202) 637-5018