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On Memorial Day

Memorial Day

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy

Honoring the fallen is not just about remembrance, but about action and remaining committed to fighting for the dignity, equity, and collective welfare of all people. The betterment of our communities, of our nation, and of our future relies on it.

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. --John F. Kennedy

As the nation pauses to commemorate those who gave their lives in service, we must remember that their sacrifice built the freedoms we hold, and it is our responsibility to carry forward that legacy of service in the lives we lead.

Those who served died defending democracy itself. The right to organize, to speak freely, to build a better future together. We honor them by exercising our rights and organizing to defend them against all threats.

As public employees and union members, we understand service. We show up every day for our students, our patients, and our neighbors. And so, we hold a special reverence for those who gave everything in that same spirit.

Thank you to all our members who have served in the military for your bravery and service, and to our members who, every day, work for the benefit of the public and our communities.

As we all take a moment to enjoy the warmer weather and the quickly arriving summer months, I hope you can pause, reflect, and rest today. In our duties to those around us, we also owe it to ourselves to take that time and take care of ourselves.


Wishing you a meaningful and restful Memorial Day,
Kenya Campbell, President


Kenya Campbell, President, AFT Maryland

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