ATU Takes Legislative Action Across Louisiana and Illinois
The ATU has been making significant strides in advocating for transit workers across the country, and recent gatherings in Louisiana and Illinois showcased just how powerful collective action can be. From successful strikes to lobbying efforts, our Union is proving that when workers unite, their voices cannot be ignored.
Southern Solidarity
Baton Rouge, LA, was filled with energy as leaders of the ATU came together for the Louisiana Legislative Conference Board, led by Chair Carlos Westley, Local 1535-Harahan, LA. International President John Costa welcomed Local members from across the South, reinforcing on our Union’s commitment to advocacy, education, and solidarity in the region.
Costa’s visit came on the heels of a major victory—Local 1546-Baton Rouge, LA’s successful strike against the Capital Area Transit System (CATS). Just weeks earlier, Costa stood shoulder-to-shoulder with striking members on the picket line, a powerful image of leadership that energized attendees at the conference.
Don’t Mess with the South
“I was just here holding the line with our brave Local 1546 members on strike,” said Costa. “You’re doing incredible work here in the South, and our members are fighting for justice despite the odds. Here in Louisiana, we’re leading in workforce development, organizing hundreds of members into the ATU family, and pushing for legislation to give us a louder voice on the job and to protect our members while they serve the public. It’s never going to be easy, but we’re grateful for everything you do, including proving that you can’t mess with the ATU in the South.”
Training for the Future
The conference also focused on the future of public transit. Attendees participated in workshops and training sessions on emerging transit technologies, including microtransit and autonomous vehicles. These sessions, led by International staff, emphasized the importance of staying ahead of industry changes while protecting union jobs and public safety.
Leaders heard from International Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo and International Vice Presidents Curtis Howard, Anthony Garland, and Ken Day. Their collective message was that unity, strategy, and persistence will drive the ATU forward, both in Louisiana and beyond.
As the weekend came to a close, one thing was clear—ATU’s presence in the South is growing stronger. With energized leaders, dedicated members, and clear legislative goals, our Union is not just weathering the storm—it’s setting the course.
Illinois Joint Conference
The momentum from Louisiana carried over to Illinois, where Costa and a team of ATU leaders spent a week at the State Capitol in Springfield, joining transit workers to fight for stronger protections, transit funding, and improved services. The meeting of the Illinois Joint Conference, led by Marqueal Williams, Local 241-Chicago, IL, underscored the collective strength of our Union and the power of solidarity in shaping policy and advancing the interests of workers.
“When transit workers speak with one voice, legislators listen. And our voices will not be ignored,” said Costa. “This week in Illinois, we showed the power of solidarity and the strength of our Union. ATU members aren’t just fighting for better jobs — we’re fighting for better transit, safer communities, and a future that works for everyone. Thank you for your energy, passion, and dedication. You are the Union, and I’m proud of the work you’re doing here in Illinois.”
Standing Strong with Our Allies
Costa wasn’t alone in Springfield. He was joined by several key leaders from the ATU International, including IEVP Trujillo, IST Ken Kirk, and Vice Presidents Marcellus Barnes, Michelle Sommers, and Natalie Cruz. Together, they demonstrated the unity and determination of our Union’s leadership in fighting for the rights of transit workers.
Elected officials and labor leaders also lent their support to the cause, emphasizing the importance of transit workers and the critical role we play in keeping Illinois moving. These officials expressed unwavering commitment to improving public transportation systems and safeguarding the rights of the workers who operate them.
Lobby Day: A Direct Call for Change
The week culminated in a powerful lobby day where our members from across Illinois visited lawmakers to share their personal stories and make a direct appeal for policies that protect both workers and the communities they serve. These conversations were pivotal in urging lawmakers to secure better funding for public transit and advocate for stronger worker protections.
This direct engagement between workers and legislators is a living testament to the power of democracy, where everyday citizens have a direct hand in shaping the laws that affect their lives.
The Strength of Our Collective Action
“This is what democracy looks like: workers engaging directly with legislators, fighting for fairness, safety, and dignity on the job,” Costa stated, highlighting the importance of staying united.
The gatherings in Baton Rouge and Springfield proved that when workers come together and raise their voices, they can make a lasting impact. The message was clear: the ATU will continue to fight for better jobs, better transit, and a future where the needs of workers and communities are prioritized.