WHEREAS:

Twenty years ago on April 4, 1968 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. died in Memphis supporting an AFSCME sanitation workers strike. Dr. King came to Memphis to call attention to the plight of these workers, who were striking for better wages and working conditions, and recognition of their union; and

WHEREAS:

Dr. King supported the idea of dignity in all work and economic justice for all workers which are ideals and principles for which AFSCME stands; and

WHEREAS:

AFSCME honored the twentieth anniversary of Dr. King's death by sponsoring a number of activities in Memphis on April 3rd and 4th, 1988. These activities included commemorative services and the annual march to the Lorraine Hotel, where Dr. King was killed; and

WHEREAS:

Political leaders, community activists, and labor, civic and religious representatives recognized the importance of Dr. King's work and the symbolism of the twentieth anniversary of his death by participating in the commemorative events.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue to push for dignity at the workplace and economic justice for all working men and women; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME renew its commitment to fight for the principles for which Dr. King stood-a world free from discrimination and racism, a society in which everyone has an opportunity to succeed, and support for human and civil rights; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue to develop coalitions with religious, civil rights and community organizations that share the beliefs of Dr. King; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME do everything within its power to keep Dr. King's dream alive.

SUBMITTED BY:

Taylor Rogers, President
Charlotte E. Johnson, Secretary-Treasurer
AFSCME Local 1733
Memphis, Tennessee