Today is Workers’ Memorial Day honoring workers who have lost their lives on the job and the Springfield Labor community is taking the opportunity to pay tribute to one person in particular who gave their life in the service of others.
Diedra Silas was killed January 4th while responding to a call of children in danger.
About 150 people attended a memorial for Mrs. Silas at the AFL-CIO building on S. 2nd St. this morning.
The ceremony included speakers, a recognition of other fallen workers and a laying of roses.
In conjunction with the event, State Senator Doris Turner is promoting Senate Bill 9137 that would provide health care for a slain worker’s family.