U.S. Chamber Urges Bipartisan Spirit for Growth and Renewal -- Labor and Business Leaders United by Hope

WASHINGTON, D.C. – United States Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas Donohue joined AFL-CIO President John Sweeney in calling for a bipartisan spirit of commitment to rebuilding and restoring economic growth.

"Terrorist attacks against our cities have taken a tragic human toll and destroyed or damaged proud American symbols of freedom and strength," said Donohue. "But the foundations of our economic engine are untouched – for our productivity, ingenuity, and work ethic reside not in our buildings or our symbols, but in each of us."

Donohue and Sweeney appeared together to mark the reopening of the stock market exchanges on Wall Street, less than a week after terrorists brought death and destruction to U.S. cities. Analysts have predicted widespread losses on Wall Street and have voiced concern that the terrorist attacks could further weaken an already sluggish economy.

"There will likely be a certain amount of pent up panic that will have to work its way through the markets," Donohue said. "But the basis of our economy has not been damaged – production facilities, manufacturing plants, the service sector and Main Street businesses continue to drive our economic engine. American businesses and workers are united in their commitment to rebuild and to move this country forward with confidence.

"We have been tested by two world wars, the Great Depression, and the Cold War – and we rose to the challenge then, just as we will now. Starting today we will begin to put our fear aside and move forward to make new investments, buy new products, hold meetings, develop new inventions and apply new technologies.

"Let us each ask ourselves: what will we do today to challenge the maniacs? To demonstrate commitment to our economy – the jobs it creates, the quality of life it provides and the security it guarantees each of us and our children."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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