ATU Black Caucus 59th International Conference

Theme: Digital Age – Empowering Workers Through Inclusion

Jersey City, New Jersey

More than 300 union brothers and sisters gathered in Jersey City for the 59th International Black Caucus Conference, reconnecting with old friends, building new relationships, and preparing for critical conversations about the future of labor. But as the conference began, one thing became immediately clear: this was not simply another conference, it was a call to action.

At a time when technology is rapidly transforming industries and political forces continue to weaken worker protections, the message throughout the conference remained urgent and consistent:

“If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” — John Costa

That statement resonated deeply because the challenges facing working people today are not theoretical. Across the nation, workers are witnessing increasing attacks on labor rights, growing economic inequality, and systems that threaten to push working-class people backward toward an era where workers had little voice, few protections, and even less power.

The conference made it clear that awareness alone is no longer enough. This moment requires organization, solidarity, and action.

From the Conference Hall to the Streets

The significance of the conference became even more powerful on May Day, the international day recognizing worker solidarity. As conference sessions concluded, demonstrations and protests unfolded outside, reminding attendees that the fight for workers’ rights extends far beyond meeting rooms and podiums.

Speaker Lawrence Hamm, Founder of People’s Organization for Progress, exemplified that reality by not only addressing attendees inside the conference, but also actively participating in demonstrations outside. It served as a powerful reminder that labor activism is not confined to speeches and resolutions, it lives in direct action and community engagement.

The issues discussed inside the conference halls were simultaneously being fought for in real time on the streets.

The Strength of the Black Caucus

The Amalgamated Transit Union Black Caucus continues to serve as one of the union’s strongest engines for leadership, advocacy, and empowerment. The Caucus exists to ensure that voices historically overlooked are not only heard but organized into meaningful action.

Throughout the years, many of the union’s strongest leaders, transformative ideas, and impactful initiatives have emerged from the Black Caucus. It has become a space where leaders are developed, conversations are honest, and solutions are created.

However, one truth echoed throughout the conference:

The Caucus is only as strong as the participation of its members.

When members remain silent, power is diminished. When members engage, organize, and speak collectively, power grows.

The message to attendees was simple but powerful:

Your voice is your power.

Technology, AI, and the Future of Labor

One of the conference’s central discussions focused on artificial intelligence, automation, and the future of work within the transit industry.

The Amalgamated Transit Union made it clear that AI and automation are no longer distant possibilities—they are already reshaping workplaces today. The critical issue is not whether technological change will occur, but whether workers will have a voice in how that change is implemented.

Without labor involvement: Jobs can disappear, Safety standards can erode, Workplace inequities can deepen.

With organized labor at the table: Workers can be trained instead of replaced, Safety can remain a priority, Equity can become real action instead of rhetoric.

The conference emphasized that participation in these conversations is not optional, it is essential for survival and progress.

Organized People vs. Organized Money

Speakers throughout the conference reinforced the importance of solidarity and engagement. Melvin Milton delivered one of the conference’s most impactful reminders:

“Organized people are stronger than organized money.”

He also emphasized that apathy remains one of the greatest threats facing labor movements today. Every member has a role to play in protecting and advancing workers’ rights.

Brotherhood, Mentorship, and Building the Future

Conversations with members of ATU Local 587 and discussions with Jamaine Gibson highlighted the importance of mentorship within the labor movement. Knowledge, experience, and leadership must continuously be passed down to newer generations of union members.

The conference experience itself became an exchange of learning, teaching, and growth.

Attendees also shared meaningful cultural and historical discussions with International Vice President Amanda, reinforcing the idea that the labor movement is deeply connected through shared struggle, history, and collective purpose.

A Major Achievement for Local 757

One of the conference’s defining moments was the official recognition that the Black Caucus of ATU Local 757 is once again a certified chapter of the International Black Caucus.

This achievement represents more than certification; it represents renewed responsibility. It is a commitment to organizing, leadership development, political engagement, and strengthening worker power at the local level.

The Work Begins Now

The conference delivered a message that could not be ignored:

If workers are not engaged, decisions will be made without them.
If workers are not vocal, their concerns will be ignored.
If workers are not united, division will weaken collective power.

The responsibility now falls on every member to remain active and involved.

What Members Can Do

Speak up in meetings, workplaces, and communities.

Join and actively participate in the Black Caucus.

Remain politically engaged and informed.

Support fellow union members professionally and personally.

Mentor and create opportunities for the next generation of labor leaders.

Upcoming Community Event

The Black Caucus of ATU Local 757 will continue building solidarity and community engagement with a social bowling event scheduled for July 11. The time and location are still to be determined.

The event will provide members and supporters with an opportunity to connect, build relationships, and learn more about the mission, work, and leadership of the Black Caucus in an informal and welcoming environment.

Final Thoughts

The Black Caucus is not separate from the union; it is an essential part of its strength and future.

For decades, it has remained a place where voices rise, leaders are built, and meaningful change begins. The question now is whether members will choose to engage and help shape the future of labor or allow those decisions to be made without them. Because at this moment, a worker’s voice is more than important, it is power.