USW activists traveled to Gary, Ind., the week of Feb. 17 for a week of education and service at the annual Black Labor Week. E.J. Jenkins founded the event fourteen years ago to bring people together from different communities, especially those from outside the immediate area who aren’t familiar with the struggles the city has faced due to white flight and attacks on its education system.
The weeklong event has grown exponentially since its humble but impactful beginnings. What used to be a gathering of mostly local activists has turned into a massive fusion of workers from across the United States.
Trisha Garcia, a member of Local 8599, traveled all the way from Fontana, Calif., to participate in her fourth Black Labor Week.
“This is one of my favorite weeks,” said Garcia. “This conference has allowed me to build relationships and connect with other locals, unions, constituency groups, and community partners. We really have built a family.”
The activists spent the week learning from each other via panels and volunteering with the community, including serving breakfast to veterans and talking to students about labor.
Along with service projects, the group also watched The Six Triple Eight, a film based on the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. The 6888th was the first and only all-Black Women’s Army Corps unit to serve overseas during World War II.
Click here to learn more about Black Labor Week.
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