Transit Union praised for progressive action in fighting for transit,
economic & social justice
Media Contact: David Roscow, 202-537-1645 x 254
Washington, DC - Citing their aggressive, progressive approach in fighting for more and better public transportation, and social and economic justice, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) was named the “Most Valuable National Union” in The Nation’s annual progressive honor roll for 2012.
“This is a great honor for the ATU that can be attributed to the hard work, commitment and dedication of our 190,000 members across North America,” says ATU International President Larry Hanley. “The ATU will continue our efforts to organize transit passengers all across the US and Canada and invest our energy in the fight for a fair economy, a clean environment and better treatment of all workers. In 2012 we reached more than 1 million of our passengers in our campaign for pro-transit candidates. That work will continue and expand.”
The Nation praised ATU’s early support of the Occupy movement in launching a comprehensive campaign calling “public transportation a human right.” The magazine also pointed to President Hanley connecting polluting oil companies as the cause of climate change that lead to Superstorm Sandy and other drastic swings in weather. Hanley says these polluters should be responsible to pay for the storm clean up.
“We thank The Nation for recognizing the work of our members and leaders and pledge that our progressive approach to social issues will continue,” said Hanley.
About the ATU
The Amalgamated Transit Union is the largest labor organization representing transit workers in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1892, the ATU today is comprised of over 190,000 members in 264 local unions spread across 44 states and nine provinces, including 3,000 workers at Greyhound Lines, Inc. Composed of bus drivers, light rail operators, maintenance and clerical personnel and other transit and municipal employees, the ATU works to promote transit issues and fights for the interests of its hard-working members.