Washington, D.C. – The IAFF has clarified last Wednesday’s decision to protest President Bush’s veto of a $5.1 billion supplemental appropriations bill.
The “sense of convention” motion, which passed unanimously, serves as an advisory motion to the General President. That advice consists of several options, including: considering a boycott of President Bush at the October 6 memorial service in Washington, D.C.; writing a letter of protest directly to the President; conducting a public demonstration at an appropriate time and place in Washington; and informing all members of Congress that the IAFF expects them to vote to override the veto.
“While I have not made a decision on how to proceed, I am considering all these options,” said General President Harold Schaitberger. “I did get the message loud and clear: my members are angry about this veto and they do not want to let the President use their image for his political benefit any longer. This veto is a slap in the face to every fire fighter across this country.
“I want to be crystal clear on two points,” Schaitberger continued. “First, I am completely committed to making a public statement about the President’s decision. Second, I will never take any action that would dishonor in any way the memory of our fallen fire fighters. The IAFF will never boycott a memorial service honoring our fallen brothers and sisters.”
