A Fraternal Spirit

To the Editor:

Your eloquent editorial memorial to Veronica Johannesen (Dec. 28 issue) will, I am sure, strike a chord with many readers. I got to know her about eight years ago when I was supporting the reformers at DC 37, and I still have a CD which she copied for me that included hundreds of carefully scanned news articles about labor issues.

Most of us know someone like her, but most of our acquaintances are not like her. She was selfless to a fault. Whatever leisure time she had was for the cause. She didn't speak of her own problems, but was always ready to plunge into the fray to address the problems she saw in the union movement. She had a true fraternal spirit and was ready to place her faith and trust in others.

While many people look to their personal advantage and comforts, Veronica took the path of service, with all of her imperfections, and made that her life. It is a good example to reflect on, as we consider how to improve the union movement each week in these pages.

ALAN SALY