Labor Movement Honors Bill Lucy's Legacy

The Facts -

(Washington, D.C., Sept. 25, 2024)—

AFL-CIO leaders honor the legacy of William “Bill” Lucy

Today, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, along with other labor leaders, paid tribute to William “Bill” Lucy, a longstanding figure in labor, civil, and human rights.

President Shuler and Secretary-Treasurer Redmond:

Our movement has lost an icon. For over six decades, Bill Lucy was a brilliant strategist who connected generations of our movement and linked the struggles of workers globally.

At 34, he penned “I Am a Man” during the Memphis sanitation workers' strike, a phrase that underscored the humanity of Black workers seeking dignity and respect.

His leadership spanned roles such as AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer, co-founder of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), and influential work with international unions. Bill believed deeply in the unity of diverse workers, understanding that oppression anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We'll continue his fight for worker dignity and respect.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders:

Bill Lucy was a monumental trade unionist, advancing the dignity of workers in the U.S. and globally. His pivotal roles included leadership in the 1968 Memphis strike, founding the CBTU, and battling South African apartheid. His visionary leadership will be remembered by AFSCME's 1.4 million members.

CBTU President the Rev. Terry Melvin:

The CBTU mourns the loss of our founding leader, Bill Lucy. A giant in national and international labor movements, he was also a fierce civil rights advocate and mentor. Known as the movement's conscience, his impact will be felt by many across labor, social, and civil rights spheres.

Contact: Steve Smith, 202-637-5018

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