United Auto Workers donate $50,000 in memory of the Charleston 9

DETROIT, MI - Members of the United Auto Workers on Thursday announced a $50,000 donation to the Rev. Clementa Pinckney fund in honor of the Charleston 9 who were tragically murdered on June 17.

“UAW members often speak of bridging the gap to lift up our communities. Through our long history of civil rights advocacy, economic justice advocacy and economic fairness advocacy, the very ideals that we have come to learn were so near and dear to those who lost their lives June 17 at the Emanuel AME Church,” said UAW President Dennis Williams.

Pinckney, a South Carolina state senator, was murdered in a racial attack at the church along with Cynthia Hurd, Susie Jackson, Ethel Lance, Rev. DePayne Middleton-Doctor, Tywanza Sanders, Rev. Daniel Simmons Sr., Rev. Sharonda Singleton and Myra Thompson.

“Reverend Pinckney, through his ministry, worked with many non-profit organizations to address social and economic challenges facing youth and marginalized communities in South Carolina. His work, and that of his church, are his legacy. That legacy, after his tragic death along with those worshipping with him that fateful night, shall not be undone but rather live on in their names and memories through this fund,” said UAW Region 8 Director Ray Curry.