A Message from Business Manager Chris Erikson Jr.
As we all know, construction is a dangerous industry. No matter the safety training and protocols in place, our members are constantly at risk. This is why we must remain eternally vigilant, looking out for each other and ourselves. Sometimes, though, even that isn't enough, and someone loses their life on the job. This week, with the NYC Central Labor Council and the NYC Building and Construction Trades Council, we will take some time to remember those lost on the job and honor their memory.
This Tuesday, April 28th, the CLC and the NY Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) will host a ceremony outside 345 Park Avenue at 12:00 p.m. On Wednesday, April 29th, the annual hardhat Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral will be held with the procession beginning at 3:30 p.m. These are times when we come together as an industry, remember those lost workers, and take a minute to acknowledge the dangerous nature of our work and recommit to safety every step of the way.
While Local 3 thankfully had no jobsite fatalities this past year, we always remember those we unfortunately continue to lose to 9/11-related illnesses and those who may take their own lives due to personal struggles with mental health and substance abuse. Keep them in your prayers always, and never forget: whether on the job or off, there is always someone in our Union who can help you.
On a brighter note, several Educational and Cultural Trust Fund programs are in full swing, like the Critical Thinking program at the Long Island Educational Center in Cutchogue and the upcoming 38th Biennial Spring Arts Festival scheduled to open this Sunday, May 3rd. These are great opportunities to come together as Local 3 members, engage with each other off the job, and celebrate the talents of our members.
