Under the banner "Unions build a better America," American Labor will honor the hard work and achievement of union members during Union Label Week 2003, September 1-6.

Union Label Week 2003, which begins on Labor Day through Saturday, reminds the American public that union members set the standards for good wages, safe working conditions and pride in their work, as well as advocating and fighting on behalf of working families for fair tax policies and responsive government.

"The union label…represents our faith in the value of teamwork and our commitment to each other. That's why we look for the label when we buy. It's our assurance that the men and women who make that product or produce that service share our values about fairness and equity," Charles Mercer, president of the AFL-CIO Union Label & Service Trade Department, explained.

He added, "When we patronize union-made goods and services, we are supporting employers who accept the principle that workers have a right to a voice on the job; employers who understand that union workers are an asset to America -- an asset which we should cherish, nurture and celebrate. That is a key step toward building a better America."