We are deeply saddened to inform you that our brother and leader Rich Trumka passed away this morning at the age of 72. He was doing what he loved, spending time with his family, celebrating his grandson’s birthday. 

Rich was a legend, from his early days as president of the United Mine Workers of America to his unparalleled leadership as the voice of America’s labor movement. Rich loved workers. And he knew there was nothing more powerful than workers standing together for a better life. 

If you ever watched Rich at a rally or on a picket line, his face would light up with excitement and hope. He never forgot who he was working for. He never forgot who he was fighting for. America’s working people were his guiding light for more than 50 years. 

Rich also believed in the power of a unified labor movement. At the 2017 AFL-CIO Convention, he reminded us: “That’s what our movement has always been about—we’re in this movement for workers and our families. That’s why I fought for a better and more secure life for coal miners and why I ran for office. It is what drives me today.  Our labor movement is more unified, more focused, more fiscally sound…because of the work we’ve done together. Now we’re ready to write the next chapter. Because no matter what we hear from the naysayers, we ain’t done yet.”

We are not done yet. Rich would never allow it. 

Now more than ever, we must come together, as one federation, to carry out the mission Rich devoted his life to. That’s how we honor his legacy.

See the AFL-CIO press release.