Statement by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka on reports of consideration for Curtis Ellis to direct the Department of Labor’s Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB):
The AFL-CIO is deeply troubled to learn of the possible nomination of Curtis Ellis to direct the Department of Labor’s Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB). Ellis’s extreme views are fundamentally inconsistent with ILAB’s mission to effectively negotiate and advocate for workers around the world.
ILAB plays a critical role in promoting international workers’ rights, enforcing the labor provisions in our trade agreements, and fighting child and forced labor. Ellis’s record poses serious threats to ILAB’s ability to support working people. While reports of his early departure from the G20 meetings raises questions about his nomination status, we oppose any consideration of him for this key role.
Contact: Gonzalo Salvador (202) 637-5018