Sweeney To Receive Presidential Medal Of Freedom

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

The White House has named AFL-CIO President Emeritus John Sweeney (r) as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom – the nation’s highest civilian honor – for his lifelong service to America’s working people. Sweeney is among 15 recipients who President Obama praised as having “lived extraordinary lives that have inspired us, enriched our culture, and made our country and our world a better place.” “No matter how high he rose, John lived the values that drew him to the labor movement as a young man,” said AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka, “and he has never stepped back from his devotion to the working people who were the heart and soul of the working-class immigrant community where he grew up. John’s integrity, commitment and passion for the least among us has earned him an award that all of labor can be proud of.” President Obama will present the awards at a White House ceremony early this year. – includes reporting from the AFL-CIO HIT Investor and the AFL-CIO’s Now blog