04/25/2024
“First of all, I would like to thank the company for committing to improving this Workers Memorial area we have at Minorca. I want to thank the workers who worked tirelessly to make these upgrades happen in time for this service.
This memorial site a stark and important reminder each-and-every time we swipe-in through the gate, that our jobs are dangerous and deserve our undivided attention.
Workers Memorial Day is a day for mourning and remembrance. It's a day to honor those who came to work and never went home. We are gathered at this beautiful memorial site to not only to honor our three fallen Minorca brothers, but also to remember all workers who did not survive their shift. Since last April, 23 workers died at USW-represented facilities. Since last January, 35 workers died at metal/non-metal mines. Mines that are much like ours. These are sobering statistics. But outside of these statistics, the number of lives impacted due to the loss of a loved one are countless.
Workers Memorial Day is also a day we honor those who have died in the workplace by continuing to fight and promote safe and healthy workplaces. As workers, you have the right to a safe and healthy workplace. You have the right to report and refuse unsafe work. You have the right to demand that hazards are corrected in a timely manner.
You have the right to demand to be trained so you can perform your job safely. By not working to have safer and healthier workplace, we are dishonoring those who did not make it home. Safety does not come with labels.
Whether hourly or salary, maintenance or operations, laborers or office staff, we are all in this together, and we must all be our Brothers' and Sisters' keepers.
So at this time, we honor our three fallen Minorca brothers. We will ring the bell after reading each of their names.
At the conclusion of the last name, we will have a moment of silence.” Local 6115 President Kyle Lamppa.