Statement by Association of Minor League Umpires/OPEIU Guild 322 (AMLU) President Shaun Francis on the passing of Marvin Miller

NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Marvin Miller .  He was a true friend and a labor advocate to the Minor League Umpires.

With the passing of Marvin Miller , Minor League Umpires have lost a friend and a labor advocate.  Through many years representing Major League players, Miller was an influential and successful union head who lead players in a series of strikes and legal battles. Though he will largely be remembered as an advocate for professional athletes and for his impact on professional sports, his long career in the labor movement makes him a role model for all working people and the organizations that represent them in collective bargaining.  He was a mentor and a friend to AMLU and we will always remember his words and advice to our leadership during our 2006 contract fight and his public support for us as professional sports employees that toil out of the limelight.  Miller educated us on the importance of solidarity.  His legacy will never be forgotten.

We send our thoughts and prayers to the Miller family.

SOURCE Association of Minor League Umpires (AMLU)/OPEIU