AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka died suddenly on Thursday at the age of 72.

A former coal miner, Trumka served as the voice for America's labor movement since 2009.

Many labor leaders throughout the country agree that we lost a legend with Trumka's passing.

"Today, the 56 unions and 12.5 million members of the AFL-CIO mourn the passing of our fearless leader and commit to honoring his legacy with action," AFL-CIO Communications Director Tim Schlittner said. "Standing on Rich’s shoulders, we will pour everything we have into building an economy, society and democracy that lifts up every working family and community.”

AFSCME President Lee Saunders said Trumka was one of the nation’s fiercest, most effective advocates for working people ever.

“From workplace safety to racial justice to retirement security to labor law reform and so much more, Rich has never relented in the struggle to ensure that working people are able to have lives of dignity and security," Saunders said. “On behalf of the 1.4 million members of AFSCME, I am grateful for his leadership and for his commitment to fighting for people who work in public service."

On behalf of AFSCME Council 57, we send our deepest condolences to Barbara, Rich Jr. and his entire family. Rest in power, brother!