President Joe Biden celebrated the significance of organized labor and union jobs during his appearance in Philadelphia on Labor Day. Addressing a crowd of union members from various industries, Biden emphasized the crucial role of unions in building the economy and supporting the middle class. The president also spoke about the ongoing economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted his administration’s efforts to invest in and pay for infrastructure improvements.
During his speech, President Biden criticized former President Donald Trump’s job creation record, comparing it to that of President Herbert Hoover during the Great Depression. He underscored the impact of his administration’s policies on working people, expressing optimism that an auto workers union strike would not occur. This drew a reaction from United Auto Workers (UAW) President Shawn Fain.
The UAW is currently pushing for a range of improvements, including pay raises, a shorter work week, and the restoration of traditional pensions. President Biden acknowledged the importance of middle-class workers in the economy, stating that when they thrive, everyone benefits.
The Tri-State Labor Day event, which President Biden attended, saw attendees showing support for both Biden and unions. Many credited the president’s policies for increased union activity and job opportunities. Biden’s actions thus far have aimed to promote worker organizing, support unionization efforts, and assist union members’ pensions.
Moreover, President Biden has continuously highlighted the role of union labor in infrastructure projects. This aligns with the recent bipartisan passage of the $1.1 trillion public works package in 2021. The Tri-State Labor Day Parade and Family Celebration in Philadelphia, which welcomed President Biden, is hosted by the Philadelphia AFL-CIO. This organization represents over 100 local labor unions and 150,000 workers.
On a positive note, Labor Day coincided with favorable job growth in the United States, with an increasing number of people seeking employment since January. As the recovery continues, President Biden remains committed to supporting organized labor and ensuring the middle class plays a central role in the nation’s economic prosperity.
“Social media scholar. Reader. Zombieaholic. Hardcore music maven. Web fanatic. Coffee practitioner. Explorer.”