Statement of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers on Occupy Wall Street

KANSAS CITY, KAN., Oct. 8, 2011 — The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers, and Helpers, AFL-CIO, supports the emerging national voice of Occupy Wall Street. We respect and support the people of America who are rising to contest a financial, political, and corporate system that places profit, power, and political influence above all else. We join with our fellow citizens in that effort.

Too many in places of high power have turned their backs on American workers who ask only that they be offered an opportunity to work hard in support of their families, their dreams, and a vibrant America. All Americans deserve the dignity of a good job. It is the responsibility of those who have profited most from our nation’s resources and opportunities to participate in providing those jobs rather than seeking to further endow themselves even while so many in our country suffer economic loss.

We encourage all Boilermakers and their families and friends to add their voices to the rising chorus for a better and fairer America and to support Occupy Wall Street.

—     Newton B. Jones, International President