FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BURLINGAME – CTA President Barbara E. Kerr issued this statement on the passing of California labor leader Miguel Contreras, the executive secretary-treasurer of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor:
"As a strong voice for immigrants and the dignity of all workers, Miguel Contreras was a giant in the California labor movement. We have lost one of our most compassionate and inspirational leaders and we are all diminished by his sudden death. At 52, he had so much more to teach us.
"Whether it was teachers, grocery clerks or laborers, Miguel brought all workers together to focus on our common interests, rather than our differences. We were proud to work with him to guarantee affordable health care to workers and to protect the rights of all union members to participate in the political process. His energy will be missed, but his legacy and spirit will live on in Los Angeles and wherever the labor movement is visible, defiant and proud."