The National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA) and The Employee Rights Advocacy Institute For Law & Policy (The Institute) mourn the sudden passing of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka.

From his beginnings as a coal miner in Pennsylvania, to rising through the leadership ranks of the AFL-CIO, Trumka knew from the ground up what it meant to be a member of America’s labor force. A fearsome advocate for the rights of workers, Trumka championed the right to unionize and bargain collectively, the importance of equitable wages, and a safe and respectful workplace—principles that form the basis of NELA’s and The Institute’s continued work in employment law and public policy.

We extend our thoughts and wishes of comfort to his loved ones and colleagues.