TLS as president, one page, 8 x 10.5, White House letterhead, November 26, 1952. Typed statement as president, one page, 8 x 10.5, White House letterhead, November 26, 1952. Statement to the Congress of Industrial Organizations eulogizing labor leader Philip Murray. In part: “I wish that I could be with you in person to honor the memory of Philip Murray, but since I cannot come, I will try to make my words carry the message of my heart. Philip Murray’s life was dedicated to the dignity of man. He fought for the freedom and welfare of the individual. While he represented millions of workers, he always was able to think in terms of each worker. Philip Murray came to us from another country—a country with a tradition of freedom. He was a gentle, religious man, but he was firm in his conviction and fierce in his love for the form of government he found in the United States. He fought communism at home and abroad, in the labor movement and in society, because he knew so well the real meaning of America. He gave inspiration to the great organizing movement of the CIO, and through his wise counsel, deep integrity and vigorous determination he made the CIO a stable structure for the lasting good of all labor. He did not strive for personal power. He always thought of labor as part of our great national community. He worked for the cause of labor so that every working man might have better food and clothing, a better home and a place of honor and respect in his own community…He regarded unions not as ends in themselves but as means in which union members could achieve their rights and fulfill their responsibilities as citizens. He had deep faith in democracy. He believed the labor movement should be the servant of its individual members just as I believe the Government should be the servant and not the master of our people…May we all continue valiantly in his spirit.” In fine condition, with mild toning. Murray began his career at age ten as a coal miner and steelworker, and later emerged as an influential leader in organizing his coworkers in the United Mine Workers of America. He went on to become the first president of the United Steelworkers of America, and the longest-serving president of the CIO, a federation of various unions. Shortly before Murray’s death, the steelworkers initiated a major strike that had a widespread impact on the US economy and efforts in the Korean War; Truman went to significant lengths to protect the union during the 53-day strike, and Murray and other union leaders emerged victorious. A fantastic statement from the sitting president during the strongest period for organized labor in the country’s history. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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