ILWU Statement on the Workers Killed in Tornado Disasters in Illinois and Kentucky

 

“Our hearts go out to the families, friends and colleagues of the workers killed at a candle factory in Mayfield, KY, and the workers killed in an Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville, IL. Their workplaces were destroyed by a tornado that had triggered warnings many hours before the destruction began, yet they were still toiling at work instead of seeking shelter. Anytime a worker loses their life on the job, it is a tragedy. But it is especially troubling to hear about the investigations into surviving workers saying they were not allowed to leave work, for fear of being fired, and had never had a safety drill of any kind. It is never okay to put profits before workers’ lives. The best way to counter employers who put profits before safety is for workers to organize a strong union with a contract that ensures proper safety procedures and enforcement mechanisms are in place. The ILWU stands in solidarity with all of those impacted by this

tragedy.”