Coalition of Black Trade Unionists Celebrates
AFL-CIO’s Historic Election of New Officers

“On behalf of CBTU members nationwide, I want to

congratulate Liz Shuler and Fred Redmond on their recent election to lead the AFL�CIO, following the untimely passing of Richard Trumka. 

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU)
President Terry Melvin issued the following
statement after the AFL-CIO Executive Council
elected Liz Shuler to serve as president of the
AFL-CIO and Fred Redmond as its secretary�treasurer:
 

“On behalf of CBTU members nationwide, I want to
congratulate Liz Shuler and Fred Redmond on their recent election to lead the AFL�CIO, following the untimely passing of Richard Trumka. 

“CBTU proudly celebrates this historic moment as Shuler and Redmond become the
first woman and African American to serve as president and secretary-treasurer of the
federation, respectively.
 

“Over the years, I’ve worked closely with Liz on several occasions to tackle key issues
impacting our nation’s workforce. Currently, we work together on the AFL-CIO Task
Force on Racial Justice, where she has been a driving force in our efforts to create real
change in our communities. Liz is a proven leader, and I am confident in her ability to
push the labor movement forward.
 

“I celebrate my CBTU Brother Fred Redmond on this well-deserved, historic
achievement. For decades, Fred has been a champion for workers’ rights, working
tirelessly to ensure they are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. As a fellow
CBTU leader, Fred sets a positive example for Black union activists, who continue to
fight for justice in the workplace, their communities, and our country. I look forward to
continuing our work together to push this the labor movement and our nation forward.  

“I also want to congratulate my CBTU sister and AFGE District 10 National Vice
President Cheryl Eliano on her election to serve as one of the 55 vice presidents on the
AFL-CIO Executive Council.”