AFSCME Honors Jimmy Carter's Legacy on National Day of Mourning

As the nation collectively reflects on the profound contributions of former President Jimmy Carter, today has been marked as a National Day of Mourning to honor his enduring legacy. The celebration of his life and service resonates deeply with many, including leaders across various sectors.

Lee Saunders, President of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), released a poignant statement in tribute to Carter's life. Saunders highlighted Carter's lifelong dedication to public service, emphasizing his roles as a Naval officer, a civil rights advocate in Georgia, and an exemplary president who championed human rights globally.

“Today, our nation pauses to honor the legacy of a man who embodied public service. Jimmy Carter spent his entire life – one hundred years – doing everything he could to protect and lift up his fellow man. He served his country in the Navy. He advanced civil rights in Georgia as the state’s governor and later as president. He set a moral standard in the White House, proving the country’s highest office can be a beacon for human rights across the globe. And he never stopped working to improve the lives of others, building homes through Habitat for Humanity even in his twilight years. He was a man ahead of his time, and our nation is better off for having had him as our president. We will truly miss Jimmy Carter.

“Carter’s legacy inspires the 1.4 million AFSCME members who have dedicated their own careers to public service. We will continue to do everything we can to strengthen and empower our communities, in his memory.”

Carter's life was characterized by an unwavering commitment to improving the world around him. From his early days serving in the Navy to his gubernatorial and presidential terms where he advanced civil rights, his actions consistently reflected his deep-seated values. Post-presidency, his work with Habitat for Humanity demonstrated his dedication to bettering lives through tangible efforts, a testament to his belief in service.

The impact of Carter's legacy is felt strongly within the AFSCME community, which comprises 1.4 million members committed to public service. Inspired by Carter's ideals, they strive to embody his spirit of service and continue to work towards community empowerment and strengthening, serving as a living tribute to his memory.