I do believe that freedom isn't free - but today the corporate and political right wing is trying to cheapen this truly American value. They've been cynically using the word 'freedom' to rally the American public against its own best interests.
Richard TrumkaTime after time we're told corporations should have freedom from pesky job safety regulations, environmental protections and labor standards - giving working people the freedom to be crushed in collapsing mines, choke on filthy air and get paid too little to live on.
Richard TrumkaThere is nothing stronger than the American labor movement. United, we cannot and we will not be turned aside. Well work for it, sisters and brothers. Well stand for it. Together. Each of us. To bring out the best in America. To bring out the best in ourselves, and each other.
Richard TrumkaWe can support President Barack Obama, because he supports us. We can support Barack Obama, because he shares our values and our vision.
Richard TrumkaTake a stand against intolerance and for our American values. Say it with pride: I support democracy in America. I support working people in America. I support opportunity in America. And I support Barack Obama for another four years as president of the United States of America!
Richard TrumkaI say let's go back to a truer use of the word 'freedom.' Let's start with President Franklin Roosevelt's Four Freedoms: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom from want and freedom from fear. I would add the freedom to bargain collectively. Those freedoms are under attack today.
Richard Trumka