Statement by SEIU President Andy Stern on Inauguration of President Barack Obama

Washington, D.C.--Less than 24 hours before President-elect Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Andy Stern issued the following statement:

Words seem inadequate when I try to capture what the inauguration of Barack Obama means to working people. How can you describe what it feels like to a janitor or healthcare or childcare worker who has felt so powerless for so long to now feel so powerful.

"Jean Berg is a single mother in Ft. Myers, Florida. She works in a nursing home but has no health coverage. She hasn't been to a doctor in seven years. She's never voted in political elections, but this fall Jean put in 12-hour days talking to voters six days a week to help elect Barack Obama.

"The significance of this inauguration is the pride in Jean's heart, the tears in all our eyes, after so many years of feeling 'no we can't' to knowing now that yes, workers can.

"This inauguration day is for Jean and the millions of working men and women who have finally found hope, who once again believe in change and are finally ready for action in Washington.

"With Barack Obama as our nation's leader, we will build an America where the dreams and hopes we have for our families can come true."

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