Cilento Unanimously Re-elected President of the New York State AFL-CIO

Albany – Today, Mario Cilento was re-elected unanimously by the New York State AFL-CIO’s Executive Board to another four-year term as President.

Cilento has served as President since 2011, representing 2.5 million members from 3,000 affiliated public sector, private sector, and building trades unions throughout the state.

Cilento thanked members of the Executive Board, telling them, “I am humbled by your support. It is an honor to continue to serve on behalf of the 2.5 million members of the New York State AFL-CIO. And it is a privilege to work alongside the most dedicated, successful and innovative labor leaders in this country.”

Cilento reflected on the dozens of substantial legislative victories Labor achieved over the past four years, most recently legislation related to COVID-19 making quarantined workers eligible for paid family leave and/or disability insurance and a law that expedited death benefits to families of essential workers in the public sector who lost their lives keeping all of us safe.

Moving forward, Cilento noted that the NYS AFL-CIO will continue to address the coronavirus pandemic, and ensure workers have access to the personal protective equipment they need. In addition, the Federation will continue to lead the fight to ensure gig economy workers have all the same rights and protections as other workers. Cilento also announced the formation of a Task Force on Racial Equity and Justice.

“I have absolute faith that as the most powerful state labor movement in the country, we will be successful. Our strength comes from our diversity and our ability to make our collective voice heard. Because when 2.5 million members speak as one, all things are possible,” Cilento said.

In addition to Cilento, Terrence Melvin was re-elected unanimously to another four-year term as Secretary-Treasurer.

"I would like to thank the Executive Board for re-electing me to another term. We have weathered many storms over the last four years but have stood victorious in the face of opposition. With the combined might of the people of this state, we will continue to grow and continue to advance the fight for a fair economy and just society" said Melvin.

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The New York State AFL-CIO is a federation of 3,000 unions, representing 2.5 million members, retirees and their families with one goal; to raise the standard of living and quality of life of all working people. We keep New York State Union Strong by fighting for better wages, better benefits and better working conditions. For more information on the Labor Movement in New York, visit www.nysaflcio.org.