Sisterhood, Solidarity, and Strength in the Big Easy - ATU 2025 Women’s Caucus
In the heart of a city known for its soul, history, and resilience, New Orleans, LA, the ATU International Women’s Caucus held its 38th annual conference, creating an unforgettable weekend of unity, purpose, and pride.
Juneteenth: A March of Memory and Momentum
To kick the conference off, the ATU Women’s Caucus and Locals from across North America took to the streets of New Orleans for a vibrant Juneteenth march. Walking shoulder to shoulder, we celebrated freedom, commemorated the legacy of Black resistance, and reaffirmed our commitment to the fight for justice.
Juneteenth represents freedom, resilience, and the unyielding strength of communities united in the pursuit of justice. We were grateful to honor the ancestors whose sacrifices paved the way for us today.
Day 1: “No Limits, Only Possibilities”
The official conference opened with a joyful Second Line, the spirited New Orleans tradition that set the tone for a weekend centered around empowerment and possibility. Hosted by Caucus Chair Jackie Jeter and Local 1560-New Orleans, LA, President/Business Agent Ronald Horn, the kickoff welcomed a sea of union sisters and allies ready to learn, lead, and lift each other up.
With the theme “No Limits, Only Possibilities,” attendees heard from a diverse range of powerful speakers, including sessions focused on healing after domestic violence, mastering parliamentary procedures, and developing leadership skills. Notable local leaders, including New Orleans Councilmember Helena Moreno and Louisiana State Representative Delisha Boyd, joined the event, underscoring the political and personal importance of women’s voices in the labor movement.
International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo, International Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, and Vice Presidents Natalie Cruz and Amanda Sawyer-Turner lent their presence and support, reflecting the high-level commitment to building power for women in transit.
Day 2: A Sea of White and the Power of Organizing
On day two, International President John Costa came to show his support and appreciation for the tireless efforts of our ATU women who lead, advocate, and uplift our Union at every level.
“What an incredible honor it is to stand with you at this powerful gathering of ATU women — fierce advocates, tireless leaders, and the backbone of our Union’s strength. To each of you in this room: I see you and I respect you. You’ve heard me say it before, and I’ll say it again: If you want something done — really done — you make sure women are at the table. On your executive board. Serving as shop stewards. Leading our Locals. Women get shit done! Own your power. Speak your truth. Never shrink back. And never, ever settle for less than what you’ve earned. You are not only the heart of the ATU — you are the future of it.”
Delegates also heard from Trujillo, Cruz, and Sawyer-Turner. Each of these remarkable women shared updates throughout the conference about the critical work being done on behalf of ATU members at the International level. They stand as a testament to the tireless efforts being made to elevate and support members, particularly women, in their ongoing fight for equality, justice, and better working conditions.
Looking Ahead
Thank you to the amazing ATU women who made this conference possible — from the organizers to the speakers, and everyone involved in bringing this gathering to life. Your hard work and dedication ensured that the conference was a resounding success.
The 2025 Women’s Caucus Conference in New Orleans was a movement in motion. From healing to organizing, from honoring the past to building the future, ATU women showed up and showed out.
With hearts full, one message rang clear: there are truly no limits—only possibilities.