AFL-CIO's Sweeney honored on Field 7
July 17, 2026 - In the center of the field at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, a simple table stood as an altar to a lifetime of service. It was draped in cloth, serving as a quiet stage for the intimate artifacts of a man who had shaped the labor movement of a nation.
Beside this tableau stood a wreath. Tucked into the arrangement, a card held a message of somber gratitude: “On behalf of the Uniform Firefighters Association, in loving memory of the service and dedication of AFL-CIO President Emeritus John J. Sweeney – UFA – Local 94.”
John J. Sweeney was a champion of the worker, a man who saw the dignity in the labor of those who run toward the fire when everyone else is running away. Among other things, Consul General of Ireland in New York, Mr. Gerald Angley, Councillor Mary Bohan, Cathaoirleach, Leitrim County Council, New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill sent greetings.
Scoring goals for the community...
July 17, 2026 - Goal 2 Goal in partnership with NYC Parks, kick off a campaign to spruce up the pitch at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in honor of Mr. John J. Sweeney, President Emirutus of AFL-CIO. “In the labor movement,” Mooney said. “the ‘pitch’ is where the work gets done. Whether we are fighting for fair wages, healthcare, or the next generation’s future, the goal remains the same: to build a legacy that outlasts us. By improving these fields, we are ensuring a brighter future for the children of Queens, exactly the kind of ‘giving back’ that defined his storied career.” Despite the plumes of wildfire smoke and blowing soil drifting south from Canada, this first day of partners were represented by Metro Plus Health, Americares, Home Depot, Nike and the community caretaker for soccer fields 2 and 7.