WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement in honor of Labor Day.

“Our country has always promised that if you are willing to work hard, you have a fair shot at building a better life for your family. To me, Labor Day is a time to reflect on that promise.

“My grandpa was a miner and a union member. To this day, I think of him in the underground mines of Ely, Minnesota, producing the iron ore that made the cars and won the wars. He saved money in a coffee can so he could send my dad to college.

“So many families have stories similar to mine—of parents and grandparents who worked long, hard hours to provide for their loved ones and contribute to our country’s economy. For generations, workers have been the backbone of our nation’s success. 

“Unions have played a big role. My dad was a newspaperman and member of the newspaper guild. My mom was a public school teacher who loved telling stories of attending labor meetings, standing in the back on top of a folding chair so she could see Minnesota’s Senator, Hubert Humphrey, talk about fighting for workers.

“This year unions played a huge role in shaping the historic bipartisan infrastructure package, which passed the Senate last month. This legislation will create jobs, fix our roads, bridges, and highways, and expand high-speed internet to communities nationwide, helping people access life-changing opportunities and providing workers with good-paying jobs.

“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting workers’ rights to organize so they can achieve the economic and workplace security they’ve earned. That’s why passing the Butch Lewis Pensions Act, legislation to restore many of our union members’ pension plans, was so crucial. And that’s why it’s important that we continue advocating for fair wages, paid family and sick leave, and more for every American.

“On this Labor Day, I am thinking of our incredible workers past and present. I am grateful for you today and every day, and wish you and your families a fun, safe, and meaningful holiday.”

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