Union reps, ex-U.S. Rep. take part in rally at miners memorial

SHENANDOAH – A symbol of the Anthracite region’s labor history played host to what the Schuylkill County Democratic Committee called a labor rally over the weekend.

Representatives of various unions, including the United Mineworkers, United Steelworkers, IBEW, and the Bricklayers, among others, spoke at the Pennsylvania Anthracite Miners Memorial at Girard Park Saturday morning.

They were followed by former U.S. Rep. Conor Lamb, who previously served western Pennsylvania.

Several dozen attendees demonstrated prior to the speeches, holding various signs in support of unions and democracy, as well as some decrying the current presidential administration.

Lamb’s speech followed a similar tune.

“Now we’re about seven months in. Has he done one thing for your members,” Lamb asked the union reps. “Somebody tell me how throwing 15 million people off their health insurance helps your average blue collar American.”

He said the move, attributed to the “Big, Beautiful Bill,” could lead to the closure of hospitals and nursing homes, the 5th and 7th largest employment sectors in Schuylkill County. He also said their workers are among the largest blue collar sectors in the state.

Referring to the industry, he said the current presidential administration has “taken a sledgehammer to it.”

United Mineworkers rep Ron Stabinsky spoke about proposed cuts to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. He said the cuts could lead to a shortage of mine safety inspectors, as they have a lengthy training period and can be let go in the interim.

He also said that the loss of field offices, like the one in Frackville, would cause difficulties in the industry as well. Though, Stabinsky said the original plan to close that office is now on hold.

Notably, the rally drew the attendance of Jenn Brothers, a Democrat from Wyoming County planning to oppose U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser for the 9th Congressional District seat.

Meuser was also in Schuylkill County Saturday attending the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament.

Additional Photos

About Author

Kaylee Lindenmuth

Kaylee Lindenmuth is a Shenandoah native with a passion for journalism and the community she calls home. She is a 12-time Keystone Media Award winner, a PAB Excellence in Broadcasting award winner, and has been nominated for a Mid-Atlantic Emmy award.

See author's posts