American Rights at Work Education Fund honors Business Leaders for a Fair Economy for speaking out on the Employee Free Choice Act as sound public policy that benefits both workers and businesses, creating a path to a lasting economic recovery.

As corporate CEOs continued their assault on the Employee Free Choice Act, a diverse and courageous group decided it was time to take a stand. Over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners formed Business Leaders for a Fair Economy to demonstrate their support for policies that strengthen the middle class and ultimately benefit American employers.

Through their advocacy to elected officials and outspoken affirmation that the legislation is necessary for economic growth, this coalition helped counter the myth from Big Business that the entire business community is opposed to the Employee Free Choice Act. Members of the coalition have shown their support for labor law reform by participating in national and state press events, appearing at community roundtables, writing op-eds, lobbying members of Congress, and rallying their own employees to get involved. Accepting the award on behalf of the entire coalition are the following business leaders:

Roger Smith, a longtime ally for working families, serves as Chair of the coalition. As President and CEO of American Income Life Insurance Company and National Income Life Insurance Company, he oversees 3,600 employees and associates, including over 3,000 OPEIU members. Smith has helped shape the coalition’s efforts to pass the Employee Free Choice Act.

Darren Horndasch, President and CEO of the Midwestern eyewear chain, Wisconsin Vision, Inc. and Heartland Vision, Inc., has proven that worker-friendly companies can thrive. Horndasch’s UFCW-represented staff benefit from top-notch training that provides for further professional development and customer satisfaction.

Damien Miller is CEO of software provider Comet Way, Inc., a Pittsburgh firm that delivers software and smart cards to support a nationalized health insurance system in Africa. Miller operates from a set of values including balance of work-life, trust in employees, and the belief that it’s the people behind the company that make it successful.

Diana Ortiz of Pueblo, CO, is a successful entrepreneur who owns both an accounting and catering company. Ortiz recently received an award from the Latino Chamber of Commerce and has been honored for her work in the local business community.