Issued September 25, 2024
WASHINGTON – SEIU President April Verrett has issued the following statement on the passing of labor leader Bill Lucy, longtime International Secretary-Treasurer of the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME):
"The SEIU family is deeply saddened by the loss of Bill Lucy, a true visionary whose work paved the way for millions of workers to have a voice on the job and in society. Our thoughts are with his family and our partners at AFSCME.
Bill's legacy is alive in every fight we wage today. His understanding that worker power and racial justice are inextricably linked guides our union's approach to the challenges of the 21st Century workforce. His work with the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists helped pave the way for other Black leaders, including myself, and inspires us as we continue our work to build a more inclusive labor movement.
Bill Lucy's spirit will live on in every picket line, every contract negotiation, and every vote for worker power. May his unwavering commitment to justice inspire us all to work harder, dream bigger, and fight smarter for the working people of this country.”