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Pelosi Statement on Passing of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John Sweeney

February 1, 2021
Contact: Speaker's Press Office,
202-226-7616
Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on the passing of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John Sweeney:
"Today, American workers lost a giant of the labor movement, whose extraordinary life and leadership made a profound difference for our Country and Democracy: John Sweeney. Both personally and officially, I am deeply saddened by his passing.
"Driven by his Catholic faith and his values as the son of Irish immigrants, John dedicated his life to honoring the dignity and contributions of America's workers. John knew that workers are the backbone of our nation's economy and the foundation of our strength, and every day, upheld that commitment in both word and deed. Over his storied career, he transformed the labor movement, making it more inclusive, progressive and prepared for the future and ensuring that workers' voices were always heard in the halls of power.
"John Sweeney was a man beloved by all who knew him for his great generosity, graciousness and warmth. His friendship will be dearly missed by countless Americans. May it be a comfort to his wife Maureen, their children John and Patricia, granddaughter Kennedy, and the entire Sweeney family that so many mourn their loss and are praying for them at this sad time."
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