“Sam Staten was nothing less than a giant in the world of Philadelphia labor for more than a half-century, and I’m tremendously sorry to learn of his passing.

“Sam truly was a self-made man, starting out as a laborer and eventually rising through the ranks of Laborer’s Local #332 to become Business Manager.  He also held key positions with the Laborer’s District Council of the Metropolitan Area of Philadelphia and Vicinity and the AFL-CIO.  He served on numerous other councils and boards related to labor, housing and the business community in Philadelphia.

“Throughout his career Sam never forgot his roots as a laborer, and was a tireless advocate for his members.  He created an emergency fund to help members facing severe financial hardships, and raised thousands of dollars for scholarships for the children of members.  His good work went beyond the world of labor: the Samuel Staten, Sr. Charitable Trust has provided millions to charities in Philadelphia and the outlying counties.

“I counted Sam as a friend, and I will miss his wisdom and guidance.  My condolences to go out to the entire Staten family, including Sam Staten, Jr., the current Business Manager of Laborer’s Local #332, as well as to all union members whose lives he worked to improve.  Sam’s mantra was ‘a fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay,’ and that is a goal for which all us must continue to fight.”