Columbus, OH – June 3, 2020 – ACT Ohio Executive Director Matt Szollosi and Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mike Knisley issued the following statement in response to the nationwide protests:
The members of the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council and the Affiliated Construction Trades Ohio Foundation are horrified by the tragic and senseless death of George Floyd. We grieve with those who are grieving and stand with those seeking a better way forward for all.
We have heard the voices of peaceful protesters standing up for racial justice in every major city across Ohio. The American labor movement believes in peaceful demonstrations and collective action for positive change; we condemn the destruction and looting that have taken place in recent days.
The Ohio State Building and Construction Trades and Affiliated Construction Trades Ohio Foundation are allied with those seeking civil rights, equality in the workplace, and better terms and conditions of employment. These are the guiding principles of our labor unions and our members.
We are dedicated to equity for all Building Tradespeople, and we affirm our commitment to safety and equality for people of color in the communities in which we live and work.
In solidarity,
Michael Knisley
Executive Secretary-Treasurer
Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council
Matthew Szollosi
Executive Director
Affiliated Construction Trades Ohio Foundation
