United We Move
Every time I sit down to write this column, I’m reminded how powerful the ATU is when we stand together—loud, united, and unapologetically Union. From statehouses to city streets, ATU members are showing what solidarity looks like, and I’m honored I get to witness it.
Legislative Advocacy Across Illinois
This year’s Illinois Joint Legislative Conference brought Locals together across the state, calling on state legislators to ensure the safety of our members and riders. Members also urged lawmakers to pass the “United We Move” bill, which would provide statewide public transit funding.
Testimony from Local 241-Chicago, IL, members moved the room to tears, as they bravely shared their stories of being assaulted while on duty —a stark reminder of the urgent need for legislative protections.
Growing Union Leadership Through Steward Training
Our Shop Steward trainings continued across the U.S. and Canada, with each training increasing the number of rank-and-file members coming in to learn the first steps in becoming a union advocate.
Standing Strong in San Jose
I want to commend our members of Local 265-San Jose, CA, who stood in solidarity for 17 days, ultimately being ordered back to work by a judge. While we fight every day to defend our right to strike, San Jose was yet another reminder of the ongoing disadvantages we face in that fight. Still, the courage and unity of our members is something to be very proud of.
Legislative Progress in the U.S. and Canada
In 2025, transit workers faced significant legislative developments impacting our rights and safety. In the U.S. , we’ve achieved victories such as the passage of a bill designed to protect transit workers from violent assaults. Meanwhile in Canada, the 2025 federal election resulted in the Liberal Party led by Mark Carney securing a fourth consecutive mandate, forming a minority government. We will continue emphasizing the need for public transit funding and ensuring that transit systems are safe for the workers.
Celebrating Diversity and Solidarity
It was an honor to stand in solidarity with members celebrating our diversity like the Cesar Chavez March, our first Pride Caucus, and the ATU Black Caucus.
From the marching down Mission Street in San Francisco with dozens of other labor unions to listening to members of the Pride Caucus sharing their powerful stories, to attending the transformative workshop on labor power and political action at the Black Caucus to witnessing the energy in the room during “Organizing for Power”—each moment reaffirmed our collective strength.
Why Politics Matter
When I look at everything we do together , from fighting for funding to demanding a safe workplace, it’s clear that these fights are always tied to elected officials, regardless of whether we vote for them.. Politicans — are the ones making decisions that shape our future. So when I hear people say “I don’t want to hear my union talk about politics,” I ask: How do we fight and defend our rights every day without engaging politically? The truth is, we can’t, and we won’t stop until our voices are heard.