FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Katie Barrows
Communications Director
P: 202-549-5991
Kbarrows@dpeaflcio.org

WASHINGTON, Jan. 2, 2024 - DPE President Jennifer Dorning released the following statement in response to the news of the passing of Seafarers International (SIU) President Emeritus Michael “Mike” Sacco:

“President Sacco will be remembered for his devotion to seafarers’ rights and service to the labor movement. He led SIU and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO for 35 years, which made him the longest-serving president in the history of the organizations. President Sacco brought stability during times of great change in his union, including a merger. His lengthy tenure of service will continue to be an inspiration to advocates of workers’ rights. 

President Sacco’s passing is a loss to the labor movement. My thoughts are with President Sacco’s family, friends, and SIU siblings during this difficult time.” 

About DPE

The Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE) is a coalition of 24 unions representing over four million professional and technical union members. DPE affiliate unions represent professionals in over 300 occupations in education and healthcare; science, engineering, and technology; legal, business, and management; media, entertainment, and the arts; and public administration.