A Message from Business Manager Chris Erikson
22 years and counting. We pause today to remember and honor our IBEW brothers — 17 of our members lost on that fateful day, along with four from Local 1212, and an additional 24 Local 3 brothers who have passed away since 9/11/2001, succumbing to certified 9/11-related illnesses incurred as a result of their exposure to the toxins while working at and around the World Trade Center site. I’m sure it never gets easier for all of their families, including mine. Heroes, all of them. Our condolences go to everyone today who is feeling the pain of losing so many Americans that day, including the brave men and women who were the first responders, at the hands of terrorists. God bless them all.
I also want to thank the thousands of members who proudly marched in the NYC Labor Day Parade this past weekend. Our strength and solidarity were on display again. They saved the best for last this year, and we did not disappoint the Labor Movement in New York City. As your Business Manager, I was thrilled by the turnout. I want to acknowledge the hard work of Parade Chairman Louis Alvarez and the dozens of volunteers who pulled it off without a hitch. We showed off who we are — union members — and what we stand for. Our strength lies in the number of active members who understand that, when the call goes out, they show up. Thank you all.
Finally, we are in the middle of a special election in NYS Assembly District 27 in Queens, which includes Electchester. Early voting was held September 2-10. For anyone who hasn't voted yet, our members need to make the effort tomorrow between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM to elect Democratic candidate Sam Berger to the NYS Assembly in the 27th District. We have always had someone in our District who supports us and our issues in Albany. Let's not drop the ball. Every vote counts and it’s a critical race. Let’s get the job done.
