The ATU was in the house for the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago as International President John Costa, a DNC Delegate for New Jersey, Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo, and Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk joined Democrats at this pivotal moment in our country's history.
Throughout Day One, public transit, infrastructure, and worker rights were front and center in the party’s platform. The first stop was the Labor Council meeting, where we heard from Senate Leader Chuck Schumer, Governor of Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro, and others. The group then headed to the Labor Delegate meeting with labor leaders from across the country. They then headed to the main session at the United Center.
Our ATU leaders were encouraged by the strong statements from candidates and key speakers who pledged to invest in public transit systems, improve worker conditions, and support labor rights. Hilary Clinton, Andy Beshear, ATU’s son Lt. Governor Austin Davis, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Rep. AOC, and so many more dynamic speakers talked about the importance of working class values.
The ATU also praised the emphasis on fair economic policies, acknowledging that equitable wages and enhanced working conditions for transit workers are essential to the broader conversations about economic justice.
Ending the night, President Joe Biden addressed the convention with chants of “we love Joe” after he decided to make the decision to not seek reelection and pass the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris. It was a hero’s sendoff fitting our most pro-union President in history.
Also joining Costa were International Vice Presidents Natalie Cruz and Ray Greaves. Day two starts today.