ATU Celebrates Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month
This year, we are once again celebrated Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month by recognizing our rock star ATU members who have made a difference in our Union, our Locals, and our communities. The following are this year’s honorees.
Ismael Rivera
Brother Ismael Rivera began his career in public transit in 1997 in New York City as a Bus Operator at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) as a member of the Transport Workers Union (TWU). In January 2004, he moved to Orlando, FL, to become a Bus Operator for the Central Region Transportation Authority/DBA Lynx and joined our Local 1596-Orlando, FL. Wanting to get more involved in his Local, Rivera was elected Vice President in 2013. Then, in 2016, he was elected Local President/Business Agent, serving until 2019, when he became a Lost Time Organizer for the ATU International, leading successful contract campaigns, organizing drives, and other campaigns for ATU Locals. In February 2024, International President John Costa hired Rivera as an ATU Senior Organizer. Rivera served as President of the ATU Latino Caucus from 2016 until 2024, working to fight discrimination of any kind and uphold the rights of Latinos and all members in our Union, our Locals, and our communities.
Tomas Fret - Local 1181-1061
Brother Tomas Fret has been a proud member of our Local 1181-1061 since 1996. A Bronx, NY, native and Puerto Rican by blood, Brother Fret began his career as a New York City school bus driver. Recognizing the importance of getting involved with his Union to advocate for his fellow members, he served as assistant shop steward, shop steward, field representative, and Executive Board member. Then, Brother Fret was elected as the Local’s Vice President and Recording Secretary. With his strong leadership skills, Brother Fret was elected as Local President/Business Agent in 2022 by this esteemed membership. He has worked tirelessly negotiating and securing
strong contracts, continues the fight to restore EPP (Employee Protection Provision), and prioritize the safety of our members. This September, Brother Fret was recognized as one of the NY City & State’s 2024 Labor Power 100.
Yolanda Moreno - Local 1555-Oakland, CA
Sister Yolanda Moreno has been a proud member of Local 1555-Oakland, CA, since September 24, 1990. An Oakland, CA, native and proud Chicana, Sister Moreno began her career as a Station Agent at Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART). In 2001, she became a Train Operator, serving the community for over two decades. Understanding the importance of advocating for workers’ rights, in 2010, Moreno became a Union Steward for the Local and was heavily involved in organizing during the 2013 BART strike, where the Local fought for and won better wages, benefits, safety, and most importantly, respect on the job. In 2017, Sister Moreno, proud of her heritage as a Latina and mentoring others in the community, became Recording Secretary of the ATU International Latino Caucus, where she served until 2019. Over the years, Sister Moreno has volunteered countless hours to strengthen ATU Locals across California and the country. You’ve probably seen her at the Women’s Conference, Latino Caucus, or recently as a Sergeant-at-Arms at our 60th International Convention. She recently celebrated her retirement from BART after over thirty years of service to the City of Oakland.
Monica Restrepo - Local 846-St. Catharines, ON
A proud Latina and member of Local 846-St. Catharines, ON, Sister Monica Restrepo joined the ATU more than 15 months ago. A native of Colombia, Sister Restrepo moved to Canada 22 years ago without speaking any English. A single mom with three daughters and two grandchildren, Sister Restrepo had her own cleaning and manicure business before becoming a school bus driver. She wanted a steadier job with better pay and benefits and applied to be a Bus Operator at Niagara Transit three times before being hired. Recognizing the importance of her Union, Sister Restrepo never misses a Union meeting. When the Local was in a contract fight, she immediately got involved to attend any member actions and make sure her fellow members were informed about the contract. She is also involved in her community as an active volunteer of the St. Catharines Latin Club and the Alzheimer’s Association. Sister Restrepo wants to set an example for her children and grandchildren by working hard and having pride in her Colombian heritage.