Healthcare Workers Resolve to Make Voices Heard after ‘Horrific’ Events in Charlottesville

August 16, 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Laura Wareck | 978-660-9587

Boston, MA (August 16 2017) – In response to the recent events in Charlottesville, Tyrék D. Lee, Sr., Executive Vice President of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, issued the following statement:

As our nation deals with the aftermath of the terror and violence committed in Charlottesville, we mourn the loss of Heather Heyer and our thoughts are with all those injured during the attack. These horrific events remind us of the bravery of those, like Heather, who have the courage to stand up against racism and hate. Throughout our country’s history, we have witnessed examples of violence and oppression, and also experienced the power of those willing to fight against it.

Unfortunately, Massachusetts is not immune from this current climate that encourages and fuels hate, as evidenced by the cowardly vandalism of the New England Holocaust Memorial. The response by President Trump has been shameful and deeply saddening. His failure to forcefully condemn the neo-Nazis and white supremacists who spew hate and commit violence is a dishonor to our nation and to all those who have suffered from hate-fueled attacks.

Make no mistake, the 56,000 healthcare workers of 1199SEIU in Massachusetts will continue to make our voices heard. We will speak out against racism and violence and continue our fight to combat injustice and inequality through our words and hard-won policies and initiatives.