Workers Memorial Day is observed annually on April 26 to honor workers who have died or suffered serious injuries on the job, and to renew the fight for safe and healthy workplaces.
Purpose and Significance
The AFL-CIO marks this day to remember those lost to workplace hazards and to reaffirm the commitment to workplace safety. It commemorates the enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) in 1970, which guaranteed every worker the right to a safe job — a right won through decades of labor movement organizing AFL-CIO+1.
The day serves as both a tribute and a call to action, urging continued advocacy for stronger safety
The APWU honors the contributions of American women in shaping our nation in March, during Women’s History Month. “Women have played a pivotal role in the advancement of social justice throughout history,” said APWU President Jonathan Smith. “We encourage all members to get involved in recognizing women’s participation in organized labor and the APWU.”
The APWU National Executive Board met February 23–24 and adopted a proclamation to honor the women of the APWU throughout March, Women’s History Month, recognizing the “unique and powerful role” women have played in the APWU and in society.
PROCLAMATION:
“A Woman’s Place Is In Her Union”
Whereas the great contributions of American women in shaping our nation are observed in March, during Women’s History Month, the 2026 theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”
Whereas women of every race and ethnic background have been at the forefront of every major progressive movement for social change;
Whereas women have been leaders, not only in securing their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity, but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the civil rights movement, the peace movement, and other movements;
Whereas women have played and continue to play a critical role in the labor movement.
Whereas women have played a unique and powerful role in the American Postal Workers Union;
Whereas, despite these contributions, the membership of women in unions and in the American Postal Workers Union lags behind their representation in the workforce,
Whereas the APWU has conducted successful women’s organizing campaigns,
Now, therefore, be it resolved that the American Postal Workers Union designates March, Women’s History Month, to launch the next phase of its campaign to organize women postal workers to join the APWU, and be it,
Resolved: The APWU calls upon union officers, activists, and members to engage in appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities to accomplish this great undertaking.
Adopted by the National Executive Board
February 23, 2026
American Postal Workers Union National Postal Press Association
