January 28, 2014: TDU and workers everywhere lost a friend with yesterday’s passing of Pete Seeger, the legendary folk singer and social activist.

Seeger, who died yesterday at the age of 94, was a role model for putting his principles into action. He stood up to McCarthyism, supported the Civil Rights movement, worked to clean up the Hudson River and was a strong supporter of unions and workers’ rights.

Throughout his life, Seeger lent his name and his voice to support grassroots movements—including Teamsters for a Democratic Union. 

When asked to support a fledgling group of Teamsters working to reform our union and open it to the members, Seeger didn’t hesitate.  He headlined a TDU benefit concert in Detroit, drawing a crowd of 1,500 fans to support Teamster reformers right in Hoffa’s home town.

Solidarity Forever, Which Side Are You On?  These weren’t just lyrics to Pete Seeger. They were his guiding principles. In TDU, we try to live up to them.

Click here to read more about Pete Seeger’s life and legacy.