Ed Hawthorne, President of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, Released a Message of Solidarity with the Workers of the Mystic Seaport Museum

Press Release

For Immediate Release

March 23rd, 2026

Contact: President Ed Hawthorne, [email protected]

CT AFL-CIO Stands with Workers Forming a Union at Mystic Seaport

Mystic, CT – The Connecticut AFL-CIO proudly recognizes the dedicated workers of Mystic Seaport Museum for taking the courageous step of filing for a union election and beginning their effort to organize a union.

"On behalf of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, I want to commend the workers at Mystic Seaport for their courage and solidarity in coming together to organize a union," said Ed Hawthorne, President of the Connecticut AFL-CIO. "These workers play a vital role in preserving and sharing our state's maritime history, and they deserve a strong voice on the job."

"Filing for a union election is a significant step toward securing fair wages, safe working conditions, and the respect every worker deserves. Their determination is a powerful reminder that when working people stand together, they can build a better future for themselves and their communities."

The Connecticut AFL-CIO recognizes the commitment it takes to organize and applauds Mystic Seaport workers for moving this effort forward. The Connecticut AFL-CIO represents approximately 250,000 workers across the state — and each and every one of them stands shoulder to shoulder with the workers at Mystic Seaport, ready to fight alongside them for the voice and respect on the job that every working American deserves.

"As they head toward a union election, they should know they are not alone," Hawthorne continued. "The Connecticut AFL-CIO stands ready to support them every step of the way as they work to build a stronger future for themselves and their coworkers."

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