Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO Fred Redmond, made a special appearance on the America’s Work Force Union Podcast this Juneteenth, and discussed the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and Terry Melvin. Redmond also remembered William “Bill” Spriggs and his impact on the way economists do their jobs. Finally, we replay Spriggs’ last interview on the AWF Union Podcast where he discussed Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights movement and how they correlate with the labor movement today.
After hearing the words of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists President Terry Melvin, Redmond discussed more about the organization and its leader. He went into detail about the programs and outreach that CBTU does to help connect black tradesmen with underserved communities. Redmond discussed his time working with the organization, and what it means to him now that he’s a Trustee. He then discussed the record turnout for the CBTU Convention in New Orleans and the importance of working together to drive America forward.
Chief Economist for the AFL-CIO, William “Bill” Spriggs, passed away suddenly on June 6, 2023. Redmond fondly remembered his dear friend and renowned economist by sharing his legacy left on the labor movement and how policy is written for underserved communities. Policy officials and former presidents sought out the guidance of Spriggs, as his thoughts on their policy provided the answers they needed. Spriggs shaped the way economists serve the people and left a benchmark for the standard of a great economist for labor and the American people.
Finally, we here at the AWF Union Podcast wanted to honor Spriggs this Juneteenth, for all that he did for labor and beyond. To honor him, we played his final interview from the show. From Jan. 16, 2023, Spriggs discussed Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. He discussed how the civil rights movement and labor movement shared several similarities.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more.