Event Renamed “Bob Butero Ludlow Remembrance Ceremony”
On June 22, 2025, the annual Ludlow Memorial outside Trinidad, Colorado, was attended by several hundred community members, UMWA members, descendants of the victims and representatives from various other unions. As always, Region IV Director and International Auditor/Teller Bob Butero emceed
the event. International District 22 Vice President Mike Dalpiaz, Secretary-Treasurer Sanson and President Roberts attended and spoke at the event.
“The United Mine Workers of America promised to never forget what happened on this sacred property over a century ago,” said International District 22 Vice President Mike Dalpiaz.
“It’s been 111 years, and we are here now honoring that promise. We are honoring the men, women and children who were murdered that day,” Dalpiaz said. “We say it every year, and we will continue to say it: We have not forgotten, and we will never forget.”
Dalpiaz asked the crowd to close their eyes and have a moment of silence in honor of those who perished that fateful day in April, 1914. At the conclusion of Dalpiaz’s address to the crowd, Brother Butero stepped to the podium and introduced Secretary- Treasurer Sanson. Sanson spoke of the sacrifices that the miners and their families made during the brutal strike in 1913-1914.
“Can you imagine workers, who just wanted a decent wage and safer worker conditions, had to die because of greed,” Sanson said. “Men, women and children were burned alive for standing up against a company owned by John D. Rockefeller, one of the wealthiest men in the country. Brothers and sisters, today we remember their sacrifices to ensure this never happens again and to ensure better working conditions, not just for coal miners, but for all workers.”
Sanson then introduced President Roberts, who was greeted with roaring applause. Roberts began with a special announcement to all who attended the annual event.
“In honor of Brother Bob Butero’s 44 years of service and commitment to the United Mine Workers of America and in recognition of Bob’s contributions to maintining and honoring the Ludlow site, we are proud to announce that the service will now be known as the Bob Butero Ludlow Remembrance Ceremony,” Roberts said.
Roberts then read a resolution passed unanimously by the International Executive Board that officially names the ceremony the “Bob Butero Ludlow Remembrance Ceremony.” A banner was hung to commemorate the event.
”This renaming stands as a lasting tribute to Bob’s leadership, dedication and deep respect for our union’s history. Thank you for your hard work, dedication and everything you have done for the United Mine Workers of America,” said Roberts.
Brother Bob Butero has long been the backbone of the annual Ludlow Memorial Service, demonstrating unwavering commitment to preserving the memory of those who gave their lives for workers’ rights.
The UMWA, in a continuing effort to preserve the Ludlow site, has been sponsoring public input meetings in south central Colorado and northern New Mexico. The cause has gained the thoughts of union members and residents of the community on improvements and rehabilitation to the site, including perhaps modifying the existing facilities on the property and adding new ones.
“WE HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN, AND WE WILL NEVER FORGET.”
Brother Butero’s Retirement Celebration
On June 21, 2025, a retirement celebration was held for Brother Butero at the Miners Museum in downtown Trinidad. Bob started working in the coal mines when he was just 22 years old. Friends, family and co-workers were present to show their love and support for him.
Food and refreshments were served, memories were made and friends and colleagues reflected on moments they shared with Bob throughout the years. President Roberts, Secretary-Treasurer Sanson and International District 22 Vice President Mike Dalpiaz presented Bob with a special plaque. President Roberts read the inscription aloud.
“In grateful recognition of your 44 years of faithful and committed service to the members of the United Mine Workers of America, we are proud to present this token of our enormous appreciation to our friend and brother, Bob Butero.
“Your service to active and retired UMWA members has made the lives of thousands of workers and their families better.”
Both Brother Bob and his entire family were moved to tears. At the conclusion of the retirement celebration, all those who attended moved outdoors in front of the Louis Tikas statue for a group photo. Tikas’s statute was unveiled in 2018 and holds a special place in Bob’s heart.
“All workers should remember the sacrifice of martyrs such as Tikas,” said Bob. “The statue means so much to me. It has always been my mission to remind people of what we all have gained through the battle waged by unions and great organizers like Tikas.”
Although Brother Butero has retired, he remains as the Region IV Director and International Auditor/Teller for the UMWA. Congratulations, Bob, on
your retirement.
